Why does high blood sugar cause itchy skin?

Many people with type 2 diabetes experience the uncomfortable condition of itchy skin. There are many causes of itchy skin in diabetics, including high blood sugar.

Itchy skin due to high blood sugar will cause an uncomfortable itching sensation, urging the patient to scratch continuously. The reason is that high blood sugar stimulates nerve cells under the skin, leading to itching, according to the health website Healthline (USA).

Long-term high blood sugar can cause itchy skin.

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Studies show that more than 1/3 of type 2 diabetics experience this condition. In fact, the itching is so uncomfortable that it affects the quality of life. In addition to stimulating nerve cells, high blood sugar can also cause itchy skin due to the following reasons:

Dry skin

When blood sugar levels are high, the body tries to get rid of the excess glucose in the blood by pulling water from the cells and rushing it to the kidneys. This results in dehydration and dry skin. Dry skin significantly reduces the moisture on the skin's surface, making it more susceptible to irritation, itching, and even rashes.

Poor blood circulation

Long-term high blood sugar damages the blood vessels that supply nutrients and oxygen to the nerves. As a result, the nerves receive less blood and become damaged, eventually leading to peripheral neuropathy. The typical symptom of this condition is numbness and tingling in the skin of the hands and feet.

Yeast infection

People with type 2 diabetes who do not control their blood sugar well are more susceptible to candida infections. Because this fungus feeds on sugar, high blood sugar stimulates the growth of the fungus. Common places for the fungus to grow are in the armpits, groin, between the fingers and toes, and the genitals.

Experts say the best way to treat itchy skin caused by diabetes is to control blood sugar. To do this, patients need to follow a healthy diet, limit foods high in sugar and white starch, and exercise regularly.

In addition, patients also need to take medication as prescribed by the doctor. Medication can help control itching and significantly reduce skin discomfort.

To take good care of your skin, people with diabetes also need to keep their skin clean and dry. Hot showers or baths can dry out your skin further and should be avoided. Using a humidifier, applying moisturizers or over-the-counter anti-itch creams can also help relieve itching, according to Healthline .

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/vi-sao-duong-huet-cao-lai-gay-ngua-da-185240716232552977.htm