Most people know what diabetes is. They know it is associated with high blood sugar levels and that eating excessive sweets can cause spikes, leading to complications. However, what many people don’t understand is how the condition affects different parts of the body and increases the risk of other health problems. This includes fungal infections, which are illnesses caused by fungi that can affect your skin, hair, nails, mucous membranes, lungs, or other parts of your body.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Mahesh D M, Consultant Endocrinologist, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, delves into the connection between diabetes and fungal infections, highlighting why diabetes heightens the risk of developing such infections.
Also Read: When Is The Best Time To Check Blood Sugar Level If You Have Diabetes?
Understanding Diabetes And How It Impacts The Body
Diabetes occurs when the blood sugar levels in the body are too high, either because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.
Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose, which is a kind of sugar that comes from our food and is converted into energy. Any irregularities in insulin production or use can result in a buildup of glucose in the bloodstream. If left unmanaged, it can cause serious complications, including nerve and blood vessel damage.
The complications can be divided into two categories: microvascular and macrovascular complications.
While microvascular complications affect the small blood vessels, including retinopathy and neuropathy, macrovascular complications involve large vessels, such as Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), and cerebrovascular diseases.
Why Diabetes Patients Are At A Greater Risk Of Fungal Infections
According to Dr Mahesh, diabetes patients are at a greater risk of fungal infections due to high blood sugar levels and a weakened immune system. This is because the fungus that causes fungal infections feeds on sugar, and chronically high blood sugar levels in diabetics create a prime environment for fungal overgrowth.
Furthermore, diabetes weakens the body's defence system, making it harder to fight off these infections.
A study published in Diabetes Care found that diabetics experience higher rates of fungal infections and various other infections, especially bone infections, sepsis, and cellulitis, as compared to those without diabetes. Researchers noted that the risk seems to be higher for people with type 1 diabetes compared to type 2.
Common fungal infections to watch out for in diabetes patients include:
- Vulvovaginal candidiasis
- Oral thrush
- Tinea pedis (athlete's foot)
- Onychomycosis (nail fungus)
- Balanitis (infection of the penis), causing redness, itching, and irritation
Symptoms of fungal infections:
- Changes in skin colour
- Redness
- Itching
- Cracking or blistering on the skin
- Change in the nail colour
- Nails getting thick and brittle.
- Vaginal itching, burning, and white discharge
Which Areas Are Most Susceptible?
Dr Mahesh says, “Diabetes-associated fungal infections can occur in various warm, moist areas of the body due to the increased sugar levels in the body fluids of diabetics. Vagina, skin, mouth, feet, and nails are the most common areas susceptible to fungal infections.”
He adds, “It's important for diabetics to be aware of these areas and to practise good hygiene to help prevent fungal infections. This includes keeping the skin clean and dry, wearing cotton underwear, and managing blood sugar levels effectively."
Also Read: What Does An Ideal Breakfast Look Like For Diabetics: Foods To Eat And Avoid
How To Manage Diabetes And Reduce Risk Of Fungal Infections
Here are some diabetes management strategies and ways to reduce the risk of fungal infections:
- Frequently monitor blood sugar levels.
- Maintaining a healthy diet
- Be physically active.
- Follow medications as prescribed by the doctor.
- Daily foot care to prevent fungal infections includes washing your feet daily with warm, soapy water and meticulously drying them, especially between the toes.
- Keep close attention for any cuts, blisters, or signs of infection.
- Choose well-fitting, breathable cotton socks, and wash them regularly.
- Avoid using tight-fitting shoes.
“If you have any concerns about a possible fungal infection, it is important to see your doctor so that they can diagnose the infection and recommend the appropriate treatment,” says Dr Mahesh, adding that early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the infection from worsening and spreading.