Diabetic Skin Signs You Should NEVER Ignore

Summary

Dr. Erin, an internist and hormone specialist in Port Lucy, Florida, discusses the connection between skin issues and blood sugar levels, specifically in people with diabetes. She explains how high blood sugar damages the skin through advanced glycation end products (AGEs), leading to skin tags, brown patches, dry skin, and ulcers. Dr. Erin offers natural remedies such as herbs, movement strategies, and lifestyle changes, including grounding, to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. She emphasizes the importance of controlling blood sugar, supporting detox systems, and using targeted remedies to protect the skin's health.

Takeaways

• 😀 High blood sugar can cause visible skin issues, such as dry patches, discoloration, and skin tags, often indicating underlying diabetes or insulin resistance.
• 😀 Diabetic skin problems are caused by advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which damage blood vessels, stiffen collagen, and slow healing by reducing blood flow.
• 😀 Skin tags are often a sign of insulin resistance, appearing on areas like the neck, armpits, and groin.
• 😀 Brown patches around the ankles, often a result of poor blood flow and venous insufficiency, can lead to more serious conditions if ignored.
• 😀 Shiny, dented skin patches, known as diabetic dermopathy, signal poor circulation and capillary damage, though they are usually harmless.
• 😀 Dry, cracked, and itchy skin is one of the first signs of high blood sugar, caused by fluid loss from tissues and worsened by dehydration or lack of omega-3s.
• 😀 Dark, velvety skin on the neck or armpits is a classic sign of insulin resistance, indicating that the pancreas is working overtime.
• 😀 Fungal rashes are common in skin folds, where warm, moist, sugar-rich environments promote fungal growth, especially in diabetic individuals.
• 😀 Non-healing ulcers, especially on feet or ankles, are a serious concern and may indicate a circulation emergency, requiring prompt medical attention.
• 😀 Natural remedies like horse chestnut, gotu kola, turmeric, garlic, and glutathione can help improve circulation, speed healing, and reduce inflammation in the skin.
• 😀 Movement, like walking or ankle pumps, is crucial for improving blood circulation, which in turn helps heal diabetic skin issues.
• 😀 Grounding or walking barefoot on natural surfaces like grass or sand helps reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and ease neuropathy or swelling.

Q & A

What are the main skin signs that indicate potential blood sugar issues?

The main skin signs include skin tags, brown patches around the ankles, shiny dented patches, dry, cracked, and itchy skin, velvety dark skin around the neck or armpits, fungal rashes in skin folds, and ulcers that won’t heal. These signs often indicate insulin resistance or poor circulation linked to high blood sugar.

How does high blood sugar cause damage to the skin?

High blood sugar creates advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which damage blood vessels, stiffen collagen, reduce blood flow, and slow down skin repair. This leads to dry skin, slow healing, increased risk of infection, and skin breakdown.

What is the role of horse chestnut in managing diabetic skin issues?

Horse chestnut is effective in managing chronic venous insufficiency by strengthening veins and reducing swelling. It can help with brown patches around the ankles and leg ulcers, improving circulation in affected areas.

What is the significance of shiny, dented patches on the skin?

Shiny, dented patches on the skin, known as diabetic dermopathy, are caused by capillary damage. While these marks are generally harmless on their own, they indicate poor circulation and require attention to avoid further skin issues.

How does grounding or earthing help improve skin health?

Grounding, or walking barefoot on natural surfaces like grass or sand, helps reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and alleviate pain. It’s particularly beneficial for those with neuropathy or swelling and can be a simple, effective remedy for skin issues linked to diabetes.

Why does skin become dry, cracked, and itchy in individuals with high blood sugar?

Dry skin in diabetics occurs because high blood sugar pulls fluid out of tissues, leaving the skin dry and more vulnerable to irritation. This condition worsens with dehydration or a lack of omega-3s, which are essential for skin hydration.

What is the impact of poor venous return on skin health?

Poor venous return causes blood and waste to pool in the legs, often leading to brown patches around the ankles. Over time, this can result in reddish-brown staining and, if left untreated, may progress to ulcers.

What natural strategies can help improve circulation and skin health?

Movement is key to improving circulation. Activities like seated heel rises, walking after meals, and using a mini trampoline or vibration plate can promote better blood flow. These actions support healthy skin and circulation, reducing swelling and damage.

What is the connection between skin tags and insulin resistance?

Skin tags often appear in individuals with insulin resistance, as excess insulin circulating in the body contributes to their formation. The appearance of skin tags signals that the body has been dealing with high insulin levels for an extended period.

How can diet influence skin health in individuals with diabetes?

A diet rich in high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like zinc, magnesium, and copper can support wound healing, improve circulation, and help maintain healthy skin. Avoiding ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks is crucial for managing blood sugar levels and promoting skin health.