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Diabetes can cause many health problems, including numerous skin disorders. Most of the skin disorders developed as a result of diabetes can happen to anyone. The only difference is that diabetes increases the chance of getting these problems. Diabetic neuropathy and poor circulation may further increase the risk of getting these skin conditions. Most skin disorders in diabetes are either bacterial or fungal infections. At times, these skin infections may also serve as symptoms and can help diagnose diabetes in time.
Does Diabetes Cause Skin Boils?
Skin boils are sore spots that develop into inflamed nodules on the skin. This condition is generally caused by a bacteria called staphylococcus aureus. Sometimes, even a fungus infection can cause skin boils. This condition might be extremely painful and is often accompanied by swelling and redness.
Diabetes is not directly responsible for this skin problem. High blood sugar levels make the skin more prone to getting bacterial and fungal infections, leading to skin boils. The number of skin boils and their frequency may severely increase in case of uncontrolled blood sugar levels for a prolonged period. However, they can be easily treated with antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.
How To Treat Diabetic Boils?
- Never pop your skin boils, otherwise, it will open doors to many more infections.
- You can apply a warm compress on it to draw the pus out of the boil. A moist and warm compress will also help in healing the skin.
- Keep the area of your boils cleaned and cover them with a bandage to avoid further infection.
Control Blood Sugar Levels To Treat Diabetic Boils
The best way to prevent bacterial infection or to aid in the treatment of diabetic boils is to manage your diabetes and control your blood sugar levels. Lifestyle changes and dietary regulations are the keys to effective diabetes management.
- Eat a balanced diet at regular intervals. Never miss a meal as it can disrupt blood sugar levels. Include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and other high fibre food in your diet to control diabetes. Avoid processed carbohydrates and packaged food to keep blood sugar levels under control.
- Exercise regularly. It boosts blood circulation which reduces the chances of getting skin problems. Exercising also helps in maintaining blood sugar levels.
- Manage your stress well through relaxing techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga, etc.
- Check your blood sugar levels regularly and keep your doctor informed of any fluctuation. Take your medicines and insulin sincerely to keep your diabetes controlled.
Skin Care Tips To Prevent Skin Boils
Effective skin care is essential if you have diabetes. It avoids the growth of many skin problems and prevents diabetic boils.
- Wash your skin regularly and maintain good skin hygiene
- Keep your skin moisturised with a lotion or moisturiser
- Avoid long hot water baths and showers to prevent dry skin
- Dry your skin well after taking a bath
- Use mild soaps and shampoos
- Monitor your skin regularly for sores, rashes or any other skin problems
- Avoid scratching dry skin, rashes and sores
- Treat cuts and wounds immediately before they develop infections
- Monitor your feet regularly for any cuts and wounds
Takeaway:
Diabetes may lead to many skin problems including diabetic boils. Yes, diabetes doesn’t cause skin boils directly but elevated levels of blood sugar may not only cause sores and boils but also increase the severity of the condition. Preventing bacterial infection through good skincare is the best way to prevent skin boils. Since uncontrolled diabetes is the main reason behind diabetic boils, one must try to control their blood sugar levels to aid in the treatment of boils. Diabetic boils can easily be treated through antibiotics, but maintaining a good lifestyle is essential to prevent further infection.
