People with diabetes are being urged to take extra care of their skin during Bahrain’s hot and humid summer, as the condition can slow wound healing and leave even minor injuries vulnerable to serious complications.
Amal Jasim, a pharmacist and member of the Bahrain Diabetes Society, said that seemingly harmless cuts, scratches and blisters should never be ignored, as they can develop into severe infections and, in extreme cases, lead to amputation if left untreated.
“During the summer, many people go to the beach or walk barefoot, increasing the risk of small injuries to the feet or other parts of the body,” Ms Jasim told the GDN.
“Diabetes can damage the nerves and impair blood circulation, meaning some people may not feel when they have a cut or have injured themselves and may only realise there is a problem once the wound has worsened.
“That is why it is very important for patients to inspect their skin at home, particularly their feet and limbs, and keep their skin well moisturised.
“Dry skin cracks easily, allowing bacteria to enter and increasing the risk of infection.
“Regular moisturising helps maintain the skin barrier and keeps the tissue soft and healthy; however, avoid applying moisturiser between the toes, as excess moisture may increase the risk of fungal infections.”
Ms Jasim said the feet are among the most vulnerable areas for people with diabetes.
“One of the most serious complications of diabetes is diabetic foot, which occurs when nerve damage and poor circulation increase the risk of wounds and ulcers developing.”
“High blood sugar also weakens the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight infection.
“As a result, even a small cut or blister can develop into a foot ulcer if it is not treated promptly.
“In severe cases, the infection can spread to deeper tissues or bone, increasing the risk of amputation.”
According to the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot, nearly one in three people living with diabetes will develop a diabetic foot ulcer during their lifetime. Approximately one in five people with a diabetic foot ulcer may require some form of lower-extremity amputation.
Ms Jasim stressed the importance of educating patients about their condition, empowering them to better manage their health and recognise potential complications early.
“Many people are not aware that diabetes can increase their risk of developing skin conditions, and it is important to get the word out so more people can become aware and avoid serious complications,” she said.
In addition to wound-healing concerns, Bahrain’s hot and humid climate can also increase the risk of other summer-related skin conditions for people with diabetes, according to German Medical Centre dermatologist Dr Abdulaati Aghniya.
He said excessive sweating creates an ideal environment for fungal infections, peeling and cracked skin.
“Tinea cruris (jock itch) and tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) are common fungal skin infections in the summer caused by dermatophytes,” he told the GDN.
“They typically cause itchy, red and scaly rashes, and athlete’s foot can easily spread to the groin through contaminated towels or by hand.”
Dr Aghniya advised people with diabetes to minimise direct sun exposure and, when outdoors, to wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and a high-SPF sunscreen.
“The sun affects everyone and can easily cause skin burns,” he said. “It is best to avoid direct sun exposure between 11am and 4pm.”
Bahrain is considered one of the countries most affected by diabetes, where the incidence of the condition is around 15 per cent of the adult population.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
Pharmacist Amal Jasim shared her tips to help people with diabetes protect their skin and reduce the risk of wounds, infections and other complications during the summer months.
* Never walk barefoot – Whether at the beach or around the house, always wear footwear to protect your feet from cuts, scratches and burns.
* Choose protective footwear – Avoid open-toe shoes and wear breathable cotton socks to help protect the skin while reducing moisture build-up.
* Avoid very hot or cold showers – Extreme water temperatures can dry out the skin, making it more vulnerable to cracking and injury.
* Use a pH-balanced soap – Gentle cleansers help maintain the skin’s natural protective barrier.
* Inspect your feet daily – Inspect your feet, including between your toes, every day, for cuts, blisters or other signs of injury.
* Seek prompt medical attention – If a wound does not show signs of improvement, or develops redness, swelling, pus, a foul odour, increasing pain, or any other signs of infection.
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