Type-2 diabetes symptoms: 5 warning signs by looking at your skin
Type-2 diabetes affects around 549,000 people in the UK.
But while the common condition is pretty easy to diagnose, some Brits are completely unaware that they are showing any the symptoms.
If you suffer persistent skin problems, it could indicate that you are battling the disease.
So which warning signs should you look out for?
1. Skin tags
These skin-coloured growths tend to form on the neck, armpits, around the groin or under the breasts.
While some are self conscious about the common blemishes, they are totally harmless.
But if you are regularly blighted with them it could be a sign of other health problems.
Skin tags can suggest that you have too much insulin your blood, which is an indicator of type-2 diabetes.
2. Itchy skin
If you have an irritated or scaly complexion, this can point to other issues.
Diabetes UK explains: “High blood sugar levels over a prolong period of time is one cause of itchy skin.
“In some cases, itchy skin may be caused by complications of diabetes such as nerve damage or kidney disease.
“Itching of the feet, legs or ankles is a common complaint in people with diabetes that may occur as a result of a period of too high sugar levels.”
If you are persistently itching, it’s advisable to book an appointment with your local GP for more advice.
3. Slow healing
If your body takes a while to repair cuts and wounds, you may be battling type-2 diabetes.
The disease makes healing more difficult because it causes high blood glucose levels.
These affect the nerves in the body, making recovery harder.
4. Dark spots
Acanthosis Nigricans is a symptom of type-2 diabetes.
The skin problem is characterised by the darkening of areas of the skin.
It can manifest in areas such as the neck or armpits.
If spots feel a different texture, or itch, this can be another health indicator.
5. Yellow and red blemishes
Type-2 diabetes makes it more difficult for the body to regulate the amount of fat in your blood.
This can cause eruptive xanthomatosis, which leaves itchy bumps on the skin.
These tend to be yellow or red in colour and manifest on the eyes, elbows, face and bum.
Category: Features, Health alert
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