Skin symptoms
Chronic skin infections are common for diabetes type 2. Poor microcirculation, peripheral nerve damage and decreased immune response have been implicated in increased susceptibility to infection. Itching and symptoms of vaginitis are frequently the initial complaints of women. In uncircumcised men inflammation of the foreskin and glans may occur.
Other skin problems may include acanthosis nigricans. It presents with velvety-looking hyperpigmented plaques, especially in the groin and back of the neck. The dark color is due to the thickening of the skin. Although the lesions are generally asymptomatic, they can be painful, malodorous, or macerated. Acanthosis nigricans is reversible with weight reduction if it is seen as a complication of obesity.
Body habitus
Overweight or obese patients frequently have type 2 diabetes. Even those who are not significantly obese often have characteristic localizations of fat deposits, particularly in the abdomen, chest, neck, and face and relatively less fat on arms and legs. Mild hypertension is often present in individuals with both obesity and diabetes.
As the old saying goes, “forewarned is forearmed”. It is crucial to be aware of the symptoms that may be first signals of such a complicated health condition as diabetes to avoid serious complications and maintain a better quality of life.
