Skin & Nail Changes Associated with Diabetes (2024)

FAQs

What do diabetic fingernails look like? ›

In some people with diabetes, the nails take on a yellowish hue and become brittle. This is often associated with the breakdown of sugar and its effect on the collagen in nails. In certain cases, this yellowing of nails can be a sign of a nail infection.

Diabetes can cause changes in the small blood vessels. These changes can cause skin problems called diabetic dermopathy. Dermopathy often looks like light brown, scaly patches. These patches may be oval or circular.

In some people with diabetes, the nails take on a yellowish hue. Often this coloring has to do with the breakdown of sugar and its effect on the collagen in nails. This kind of yellowing isn't harmful. It doesn't need to be treated.

If you have poor blood circulation, your lower legs may itch the most. Moisturizers can help. Fungal infections: A yeast called Candida albicans causes most fungal infections in people with diabetes. You'll have moist areas of tiny red blisters or scales that itch.

2 Nail changes in vitamin B₁₂ deficiency present as hyperpigmentation of nails like bluish discoloration of nails, blue-black pigmentation with dark longitudinal streaks, and longitudinal and reticulate darkened streaks. The nail pigmentation associated with B₁₂ deficiency is more frequent in patients with dark skin.

Changes in nail shape and texture

Iron deficiency or overproduction may cause the nail bed's center to look like it had been scooped out, a condition known as spoon nails. Cardiovascular, pulmonary and gastrointestinal problems may also appear in the nails as curves around an enlarged fingertip, known as clubbing.

A thickening or hypertrophy of the nail plate of the toenail (without deformity). It typically includes discoloration or a loss of translucency. Though onychauxis can be a natural part of aging, it is also a common symptom of diabetes.

What is a diabetic belly? ›

But that doesn't mean abdominal weight gain should be ignored. It can be an early sign of so-called "diabetic belly," a build-up of visceral fat in your abdomen which may be a symptom of type 2 diabetes and can increase your chances of developing other serious medical conditions.

increased thirst and a dry mouth. needing to pee frequently. tiredness. blurred vision.

Hapalonychia (soft nails) has been associated with deficiencies of vitamins A and D among other causes. Longitudinal melanonychia of the nail plate has been reported in vitamin D deficiency.

Terry's nails is a type of nail discoloration. The nailbeds look “washed out,” except for a thin reddish-brown strip near the tip. Often, Terry's nails is a symptom of a chronic condition, such as liver failure or diabetes.

A low level or lack of oxygen circulating in your red blood cells can cause blue fingernails. Other causes can include chronic conditions and cold temperatures. This condition is known as cyanosis.

White streaking. People diagnosed with chronic kidney disease may notice white streaking or pale horizontal bands forming along the nail. This condition is known as Muehrcke's nail or Muehrcke's line, referring to Robert Muehrcke, a physician who first described this condition.