I suffer from dry, itchy skin that keeps me from going outdoors. No matter what I use or apply on my skin, my symptoms won't go away and seem to get worse whenever I go out in the sun. One day, I talked to my regular doctor about my skin condition. The doctor referred me to a dermatologist for treatment. It was a big relief to find someone who can really help. The dermatologist examined my skin and asked me questions about my diet, lifestyle and habits. I actually caused my skin problems by what I do each day. After making big changes in my life and getting the right skin treatment, I now live a full life. If you need help for your skin condition that really works, read my blog. You'll find information about skin conditions and their treatments, as well as where to go for help.
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When you have diabetes, you become more susceptible to developing skin diseases and infections. One such type is called granuloma annulare, which is a chronic skin problem that produces smooth ring-shaped lesions and bumps on body parts far away from the trunk (e.g. fingers, legs). These eruptions typically disappear after a few months but, in some cases, they can last for years. Though they generally aren't harmful, they can look awful. Here are two possible treatment options that may make the lesions and bumps go away faster.
Corticosteroid Medications
One thing that may help the lesions associated with this disorder disappear faster is treating them with corticosteroid medications. Granuloma annulare may be caused by inflammation or a hypersensitive reaction to external or internal issues, such as uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Corticosteroids are designed to reduce inflammation, making it a good option to try.
There are three ways corticosteroids can be administered to treat this skin condition: orally, topically, or via injections. Oral corticosteroids are usually taken by pill on a daily basis, while topical medications typically consist of creams that must be applied multiple times during the day. However, the medication can also be injected directly into the affected area.
The effectiveness of these options depends on the type and severity of your condition. Mild granuloma annulare may benefit best from topical treatments, while more severe manifestations may be better served with injections.
Be aware, corticosteroids cannot be used for long periods of time, because these medications can suppress immune function and make you more vulnerable to infection. Topical medications can also increase inflammation and further damage the skin when used for too long. If your skin doesn't clear up after using the medication for the time prescribed by your doctor, ask him or her for an alternative option.
Cryotherapy and Laser Therapy
Sometimes granuloma annulare can produce unsightly bumps. In these cases, you can get them removed using cryotherapy or laser therapy. Cryotherapy involves using liquid nitrogen to freeze the bumps and then swabbing or scraping them away. Laser ablation, on the other hand, consists of using a focused beam of light to cut away the bumps.
Either option can cause mild pain. However, the doctor may use a local or topical anesthetic to alleviate the discomfort. You may also experience swelling or redness for a few days afterwards, and there may be some skin discoloration.
While effective, cryotherapy and laser therapy are not permanent solutions. The bumps can return if the conditions are right. Therefore, it's essential you get the underlying cause of the problem (e.g. unstable blood sugar levels) under control to prevent the growths from returning.
To learn about these and other options for treating granuloma annulare, contact a dermatologist such as those found at Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists of Moreno Valley.
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