November is National Diabetes Awareness Month.
Joseph with his parents and Norrin
According to Diabetes.org:
- An estimated 2 million adult New Yorkers (12.3%) now have diabetes.
- Almost 28% of Latinos and Hispanics in New York City, and 31% of African American New Yorkers, have diabetes.
My grandfather had diabetes. My mother has symptoms of prediabetes. And both of Joseph’s parents have diabetes. So yeah, it’s something that concerns me.
Having a son with autism, I worry about his health and how he manages his self-care skills. It’s critical that he understands the importance of eating right, exercise and having a skincare routine. It’s something he needs to learn now so that he can do it independently after I’m gone.
RELATED: Life Skills and Kids with Autism
But back to my in-laws. They live in Florida and we see them whenever we visit. When it comes to managing their diabetes, diet and exercise are the main focus. Joseph is always asking about what they eat and where they go. But I don’t think I’ve ever heard him inquire about their skin care.
Managing diabetes is not just about eating right, exercising, and following doctor recommendations. Taking care of your skin is just as important.
Being a Lubriderm ambassador has been such a learning experience. Earlier this month, I had the chance to ask Dr. Maria Patricia Rivas – Lubriderm’s certified dermatologist – a few questions on the importance of skin health for people with diabetes.
Q & A WITH DR. RIVAS
What are the skin issues related to people with diabetes?
Diabetes can cause darkening and thickening of skin folds, skin tags, dry itchy skin, a variety of rashes and discoloration on the legs, amongst others. In addition, diabetics (especially those who are not well controlled) can be more prone to infections and foot ulcers.
Why is it important for diabetics to take care of their skin? Do you have any specific suggestions for lotions?
It’s important for diabetics to take care of their skin because this disease can dry out the skin. This means that you can get injured and catch an infection more easily.
I recommend LUBRIDERM® Intense Skin Repair Lotion to replenish the moisture in dry skin and subsequently help relieve chronic itching.
What precautions – if any – should they take when it comes to treating their skin?
It’s very important to use a gentle soap to shower and keep the skin well moisturized using a lotion on a daily basis. Stay hydrated (drink water), use sunscreen and always check your skin for rashes, sores or infections (including toenails).
The holidays are here and Lubriderm lotion makes a great stocking stuffer! I know I’ll be sending my in-laws some.
For more skin care tips and information visit Lubriderm.
I am a Lubriderm 2015 Ambassador. As always, my posts are based on my opinions and experiences.
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