By Admin 
What Are the Early Skin Signs of Diabetes: The Economic Survey 2025-26 has identified diabetes as a major emerging health risk in India. Diabetes has become the biggest challenge among NCDs in the country. About 9 crore adults are affected by it and it is estimated that by 2026 this number may cross 10 crore. Often people consider symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision as signs of diabetes. But some changes visible on the skin can also be early signs of blood sugar imbalance. However, there may be other reasons behind these symptoms also. Let us tell you its 7 symptoms.
7 common skin signs associated with diabetes
diabetic dermopathy
Small, round, brown or red spots may appear on the calves. These do not cause pain or itching, but may be a sign of changes in the blood vessels. According to the Journal of Cardiovascular Disease Research, skin changes associated with damage to small blood vessels and nerves were found in more than 25 percent of diabetic patients.
acanthosis nigricans
Seeing dark, thick and velvety spots on the neck, armpits, thighs or finger joints can be a sign of insulin resistance. According to the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, this is an important skin sign associated with obesity and diabetes.
delayed wound healing
If an injury or wound does not heal quickly, it may cause damage to blood flow and nerves. According to the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, dysfunction of immune cells and decreased tissue repair can lead to the formation of chronic wounds, especially in diabetic foot ulcers.
Frequent fungal or bacterial infections
Immunity becomes weak due to increase in blood sugar, due to which fungal and bacterial infections can occur again and again. This has also been mentioned in the Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology.
itching and dry skin
High BP Sugar draws fluids from the body, which can cause the skin to become dry and itchy. Due to damage of small blood vessels, leakage of sweat and oil is reduced. In Frontiers in Medicine (2025) it has also been described as a sign related to diabetes.
Necrobiosis lipoidica
This is a rare but serious symptom in which bright red-brown or yellow spots may form on the calves. Veins may become visible due to thinning of the skin. According to the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, it is seen more in patients suffering from diabetes for a long time.
vitiligo
In this condition, the color of some parts of the skin fades away and turns white. Type-1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, hence vitiligo is seen more in such patients. In type-2, it may be associated with metabolic stress and immune disturbances. Cutaneous Manifestations in Diabetes and ICMR also consider skin examination important in diabetes control.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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