Is There A Link Between Eczema and Diabetes?

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It is a kind of skin problem that usually affects skin coloration. The affected skin can get discolored skin because the cells that have function to make pigment of the skin are damaged.

Which are the common sites of the body that can be affected? It often affects abdomen and chest. In a few cases, it also can be found around the mouth or even on face. And in general, it is more commonly found in type-1 diabetes – though it also can occur in type-2 diabetes.

Like most things in skin problems, topical treatment such as with topical steroids can be the core of the treatment. Furthermore, doctor can recommend other treatment options such as micro-pigmentation and ultraviolet light therapy.

This skin disorder can lead to a thickening of the skin, particularly on upper back or on the back of the neck (the common sites of where it occurs). Unlike vitiligo, it is more common in type-2 diabetes.

Since the high levels of blood sugar is the trigger factor of the problem, the core of the treatment plan is usually designed to help lower blood sugar and maintain it as normal as possible. And to improve and soften thickening skin, the use of moisturizers and lotions may help.

It is often found in the skin folds which usually characterized by thickening and darkening. There is also chance for the affected skin to become brown /tan. It then sometime may become slightly raised.

The common sites of the body for it to occur are groin, back of neck, under the chest, armpits, or other skin folds as noted before.

And since it often affects the skin folds, it is more commonly found in people with overweight or obesity. Therefore, losing weight can be the core of treatment plan, particularly if the sufferer has obesity.

Like in eczema, this kind of skin disorder also can be a chronic condition. Currently, the treatment options are more intended to improve the symptoms during flare-up, manage the problem, and to prevent the next flare-up to recur.

Insulin resistance is not the single issue behind the problem. Other conditions that may cause acanthosis nigricans are Cushing’s syndrome and acromegaly (a hormonal disorder).

If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar under control can be the best way to prevent skin problems linked to diabetes or other complications.

Follow the treatment plan prescribed by your healthcare provider for your best chance in coping with the problem!