Common infections from diabetes include:
- Foot and leg infections, including diabetic foot ulcers, which are caused by poor circulation and nerve damage.
- Vaginal yeast infections in women and jock itch in men.
- Thrush, painful white patchy sores in the mouth and on the tongue.
- Styes, which are infections of the eyelid.
- Boils, which are infections of the hair follicles.
- Finger and toenail infections.
- Urinary tract infections.
- Gingivitis, an infection of the gums.
- Lung and sinus infections.
Signs and symptoms of these conditions vary depending on the type of infection. For example, gum infections may produce pain, swelling, and redness in the gum line, while urinary tract infections may cause cloudy or bloody urine or painful urination.
The key to decreasing the risk of infections in diabetes is to control blood sugar through diet, exercise, and medications.
Other ways to prevent or decrease the risk of infections include:
- Examine your feet daily. Check for cuts, scrapes, and reddened or open areas in the skin.
- Brush your teeth regularly. Be sure to visit the dentist regularly also.
- Watch for sores in the mouth or on the lips, especially white, painful patches on the tongue.
- Watch for changes in color or odor of urine, burning or painful urination, or any type of discharge.
- Receive an influenza or “flu” virus annually.
It is important to call your doctor at the first sign of infection, even if it seems minor. The infection, if treated at the first sign, has a better chance to heal before it gets worse. If you have any questions about diabetes and infections, please speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Michelle Herbert Thomas, PharmD, CDE
Clinical Director, Richmond Apothecaries Incorporated
