Diabetic Dermatitis: Just One Of The Many Diabetes Induced Skin Problems

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Diabetes can cause a lot of skin problems, especially if uncontrolled. For some, it can cause diabetic dermatitis, diabetic dermopathy, diabetic neuropathy, and many more. Sometimes, the skin problems come first, being a symptom of already having untreated diabetes.

It would be beneficial for you to know diabetic dermatitis and other skin problems caused by diabetes so that you can be aware of the underlying cause of any skin problem you are experiencing.

Diabetic Dermatitis Through Dermatitis Herpetiformis

Diabetic dermatitis usually comes in the form of dermatitis herpetiformis, which is an extremely itchy skin eruption. It is frequent with young adults, commonly men and those whose origins are from the areas north of Europe. The symptoms are stinging, itching and intense burning around the, knees elbows, buttocks, scalp and back. It can also be found in other locations depending on the severity.

Diabetic Dermatitis appears like tiny clusters of red bumps. There can also be tiny water blisters on the area that you can quickly scratch off. Before they form, you can usually have a burning sensation on the certain area where it will grow. Herpes does not cause dermatitis Herpetiformis, even though the names are quite similar.
Diabetic Dermopathy

Having Diabetes can make changes in your small blood vessels. These changes can lead to diabetic dermopathy, which usually looks like light brown colored scaly patches. You may see circular or oval patches in your skin, which can sometimes be mistaken for age spots. This skin disorder can usually be seen on the front of both legs.
However, aside from the pigmentation, the patches do not open up, hurt, or itch. Diabetic Dermopathy does not need treatment because it is generally harmless.
Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum
Another skin disease caused by blood vessel changes in diabetes is necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum. This condition is similar with diabetic dermopathy. The only variation is that you can have fewer spots, but they are larger in size and deeper.
Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum usually starts out as a raised dull red area. After some time, it begins to look like a very shiny scar that has a violet border. The condition can sometimes be painful and itchy, to the point that the spots crack open.
These are just some of the skin problems caused by diabetes mellitus. Just remember, if you start seeing skin irritation or problems in your skin, it is best that you seek medical advice from doctors or dermatologists, to get a credible diagnosis.

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