Thursday, February 28, 2013

Chapel Hill Senior Care: Treatment Options for Diabetes-Related Skin Conditions

By:  Todd Palmer

Chapel Hill Senior Care: According to the American Diabetes Association, up to 33 percent of individuals who suffer from diabetes also develop skin disorders that are related to this condition.[1] Most of these skin problems are resolved by getting blood sugar levels back under control, as they subside when diabetes is properly managed; however, there are some skin infections that are related to diabetes that need additional care. These bacterial and fungal infections impact many individuals who have diabetes in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and should be taken seriously. Here is some additional information from the American Diabetes Association regarding these infections and how to best treat them.
Bacterial Infections
Individuals who develop a bacterial infection may see it emerge in a variety of ways; styes, boils, folliculitis, carbuncles, and nail infections are all indications of a bacterial infection and should be attended to by a medical professional. Oftentimes, the area that is impacted by the infection becomes inflamed and swollen. It may become hot to the touch, turn red, and create pain.

To treat these infections, antibiotics and blood sugar management techniques are recommended. Bacterial infections can be fatal if not addressed quickly, although innovations in modern medicine have reduced the number of fatalities associated with such infections drastically if they are caught in time. If you believe that your senior has a bacterial infection it is crucial that you get them to the doctor as soon as possible. To prevent this issue encourage your elderly loved one to practice proper skin care.
Fungal Infections

Seniors who have diabetes may find themselves suffering from Candida albicans, which is a fungal infection akin to yeast that can cause a great deal of discomfort. The tell tale signs of this infection include moist, red patches of skin that accompany blisters. Additionally, the skin becomes scaly in texture.
Fungal infections can be treated with a prescription and, if your senior seeks medical assistance early, can be cured quite quickly; however, as with all skin conditions, it is important that your elderly loved one sees a medical professional as soon as possible.

Diabetes-related skin conditions can be extremely uncomfortable, but understanding that your elderly loved one is at higher risk for these issues—and knowing how to treat them—can help you better care for your senior.
Please take advantage of our free e-book that provides information on senior care and an overview of the services we offer.

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If you are interested in learning more about Alzheimer's, dementia and elder care, contact Todd Palmer and the professionals at Always Best Care of Chapel Hill and Durham at (919) 357-1440 visit their website.


[1] http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/skin-complications.html

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