Understanding Diabetic Rashes

Learn about the signs and symptoms of 4 common diabetic rashes

Skin rashes can occur for a variety of reasons. Most of the time, the rash is linked to skin contact with something irritating, such as certain detergents, fragrances, dyes, fabrics, or metals. But in other cases, it could be linked to something you ate.

This could be true even if you do not have any food allergies—if you are diabetic, eating foods that cause your blood sugar to rise could trigger one or more of these types of diabetic rashes:

Scleredema Diabeticorum

This type of diabetic rash most often appears on the upper back and neck. It is characterized by a thickening and darkening of patches of skin. In order to control this rash, the first step is obviously to control blood sugar by eating a healthier diet. Improving circulation with regular exercise can also help speed healing.

Diabetic Eczema

Like ordinary eczema, diabetic eczema appears as patches of dry, itchy, red skin. If high blood sugar is not corrected, diabetic eczema can develop into boils and weeping patches. Many of the same lotions and topical treatments that are used on ordinary eczema can also help relieve the symptoms of diabetic eczema, though symptoms will recur if blood sugar is not lowered.

Thrush

When diabetics eat too much sugar, a yeast bacteria can grow out of control inside the mouth. White clumps may appear on the tongue and on the inside of the cheeks. This type of diabetic rash is treated with anti-fungal medications as well as changes to the diet.

Erythrasma

Often mistaken for ringworm due to its similar appearance, erythrasma causes scaly red or brown patches, especially in the groin, neck, or armpits, or in the skin folds of obese individuals. Again, the best way to control this rash is with blood sugar control. However, cortisone creams can also be used to help relieve itching as the rash heals.

Get an Expert Diagnosis

If you have a skin rash that matches any of the above descriptions, it would be wise to consult an experienced allergist for help. Your allergist can recommend medications and lotions that will help soothe your skin as it heals, and also provide expert advice about the need for you to get tested for diabetes and/or visit your regular doctor to discuss a plan for controlling your blood sugar better.