Read - diabetes

What is
diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease in which the body can not produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is used to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy.

What are some diabetes symptoms to watch out for?
The diabetes symptoms that are eye openers to having this disease would be excessive thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, blurred vision, weight loss and irritability.

Care of your skin when you have diabetes

Blood sugar levels that are high over a long period can damage the sweat glands and increase the risk of skin dryness and cracking. Damaged skin is more easily infected when you have diabetes.

To prevent skin problems and allow for early treatment for any problems that develop, each day:

    * Inspect your skin, especially on your feet, between your toes, and around your fingernails and toenails. Watch for redness, cuts, scrapes, calluses, or blisters.
    * Keep your skin folds?such as in the groin or under the breasts?dry. Moist areas increase the risk of infection.
    * Use bath soap with a moisturizer added. Use soap only as needed (on the feet, underarms, and groin). Avoid deodorant soaps and antibacterial soaps, which may be drying.
    * If your skin is dry, do not use bubble baths. Use a bath oil instead.

To prevent dryness and injury:

    * Use a home humidifier during cold weather and in dry climates.
    * Wear gloves when you are gardening, doing yard work, using household chemicals, or doing dishes.
    * Always test the water temperature before a bath or shower, especially if you have peripheral neuropathy. Use your elbow or upper arm to check the temperature or have a family member do it.

See your health professional or a dermatologist if a skin problem does not go away.

Why is diabetes related to unhealthy skin?
One of the symptoms of diabetes is frequent urination. Increased frequency of urination reduces the moisture available for the skin. Diabetes contributes to thickening of the skin. Also diabetes leads to reduced blood circulation to the skin. Other known symptoms of diabetes in regards to skin is dry, scaly skin that can appear anywhere on the body. Sometimes the skin ends up with skin cracks that can be harmful, leading to infection.

What is the role of the American Diabetes Association?
The role of the American Diabetes Association is straight forward. It acts as a support group for all who need answers to their questions, or concerns regarding this disease. The American Diabetes Association will provide you with all the information necessary to deal with this disease. IF you are in need of purchasing or renting diabetes supplies, the American Diabetes Association will be happy to refer you to the appropriate service provider. If you are in need of the diabetic supplies, you may be eligible for a home delivery service covered by Medicare to receive test strips, lancing devices, a glucose meter, and other devices.

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