Diabetes awareness is essential, and November is the time to spread the news since it is American Diabetes Month.  So this November — and every month — be sure to check your skin for any abnormalities that may be an indication or complication of diabetes. This disease often shows up first in your peripheral nervous system and skin cells in your hands and feet.

Here are 4 common skin problems that may be associated with diabetes or pre-diabetes:

• Ulcerating wounds—Peripheral neuropathy is numbness and tingling in the extremities that are often caused by the nerve damage of diabetes. Cuts, blisters and other injuries can go unnoticed until they have become infected and gangrenous. At this point, the only option is amputation of the affected body part.
• Fungal and bacterial infections—Since immune responses are lessened in patients with diabetes, cuts can take much longer to heal. They are also more likely to become contaminated with fungi and bacteria, possibly leading to nail infections, boils and folliculitis.
• Itchy skin—Itching is often caused by poor circulation that is frequently seen in patients with diabetes. The disease can cause skin dryness and contribute to itching.
• Vitiligo patches—Damage to melanin-producing skin cells will create skin patches without any pigment.

Careful skin care and blood sugar monitoring and treatment can help minimize or prevent many of these complications. Your board-certified skin care professional is the one to call. Dr. Juan Vaillant of Old Bridge Dermatology has been treating patients for hair, skin, and nail problems for over 30 years, and has the extensive background needed to help address a variety of dermatological issues. Dr. Vaillant has successfully treated acne, eczema, dandruff, hair loss, psoriasis, and nail fungus. If you are looking for an amiable, highly skilled dermatologist, call our office in Old Bridge, NJ at (732) 679-0222 and make an appointment.