However, as lesions clear up, new ones may form. Poor circulation and nerve damage can make it hard for your body to heal wounds. (2020). Could You Have Subclinical Hypothyroidism? Granuloma annulare (gran-u-LOW-muh an-u-LAR-e) is a skin condition that causes a raised rash or bumps in a ring pattern. Images 3, 7, 8, 9: Used with permission of the American Academy of Dermatology National Library of Dermatologic Teaching Slides. This condition is linked with many complications, both microvascular and macrovascular. Diabetes and Skin Conditions: Why are There Red Spots on My Legs? Unlike age spots, these spots and lines usually start to fade after 18 to 24 months. These measures can protect your shins and legs, two areas where lesions most likely occur. High blood sugar (glucose) can cause this. These open wounds are called diabetic ulcers. It can also make your finger joints stiff. As long as the sores don't break open, you won't need treatment for them. If your doctor determines you have diabetic dermopathy, they may forgo a biopsy. You may also notice: With vitiligo, the cells that make the substance that gives your skin color, melanin, are destroyed. Granuloma annulare. (2012). It can be found on the sides or back of the neck, the armpits, under the breast, and groin. It is not always possible to avoid diabetes, but some lifestyle habits may have an impact, including: Lifestyle changes that may help with type 2 diabetes-related skin problems include: Each person is different, so make sure to consult your doctor before changing your diet or exercise program. Itching may be due to an infection, dry skin, or inadequate circulation. Some lesions may take months to resolve, while others may take more than a year. Often causing darker skin in the creases of the neck, AN may be the first sign that someone has diabetes. These rashes most often happen on the fingers and ears, but they can appear on the chest and abdomen, too. About 30% of people with vitiligo have a family history of the condition, and it is more common in people with Type 1 diabetes than Type 2 diabetes. A Review. 2014;14:95-97. doi:10.15277/bjdvd.2014.027, Timshina DK, Thappa DM, Agrawal A. As a result, there may be stiffness in the joints, making it harder to bend your fingers. In people with diabetes, bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens develop more easily and become harder to remove. If you develop ulcers, seek medical advice as soon as possible. Dark patches of skin with a thick, velvety texture characterize the condition. While NLD may happen more often in women, Dr. Siegel notes that its actually fairly rare. No treatment is necessary unless the spots crack and open. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about half of all people with diabetes will develop some form of neuropathy, or nerve damage. Diabetic dermopathy is harmless and does not require any treatment. Most lesions are found on the lower parts of the legs and can turn into an ulcer if theres trauma. Erin Davis, MS, RDN, CDCES, is a freelance medical writer and consultant who has over 15 years of clinical and community experience as a dietitian and diabetes educator. Like bacterial infections, they can affect anyone. 2022 Jan 1;45(Suppl 1):S97-S112. Your healthcare provider will ask you questions about your medical history and your skin spots. Other areas lesions can be found include: Even though lesions can be unpleasant to look at depending on the severity and the number of spots the condition is harmless. Ringworm: Named ringworm only because of its circular shape (it doesnt involve a worm), this fungal infection of the skin may be itchy and red, with a raised border. Reducing risks: To reduce risk of diabetes complications, you should regularly follow up with your health care provider.