3.6 Skin As many as one-third of people with diabetes will have a skin disorder.

You will also have a increased risk of infections like abscesses and vaginal candidiasis if your glucose is poorly controlled. Therefore :

• Keep your diabetes well managed. People with high glucose levels tend to have dry skin and less ability to fend off harmful bacteria.


• Keep skin clean and dry. Use talcum powder in areas where skin touches skin, such as armpits and groin.


• Avoid very hot baths and showers. If your skin is dry, don't use bubble baths. Afterward, moisturize your skin. But don't put lotions between toes. The extra moisture there can encourage fungus to grow.


• Prevent dry skin. Scratching dry or itchy skin can open it up and allow infection to set in.


• Treat cuts right away. Wash minor cuts with soap and water. Do not use Mercurochrome antiseptic or alcohol, to clean skin because they are too harsh. Only use an antibiotic cream or ointment like bactroban.

ARE YOU READY?
Tel : 021- 850 1039 / fax : 021-8501034
Reference : ADA (American Diabetes Association) www.diabetes.org

BACK | HOME