Experts don’t yet understand why people with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) get diabetes at higher rates. It may be related to unbalanced hormone levels, one of the causes of HS. People with HS also have ongoing inflammation, which can prevent insulin from working properly, potentially triggering diabetes in the long term.
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Experts don’t yet understand why people with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) get diabetes at higher rates. It may be related to unbalanced hormone levels, one of the causes of HS. People with HS also have ongoing inflammation, which can prevent insulin from working properly, potentially triggering diabetes in the long term.
Risk Factors for Both Conditions:
- Metabolic syndrome (high blood pressure, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol levels)
- Higher body weight
- Smoking cigarettes
Symptoms of Diabetes to Watch For:
- Unusual thirst or hunger
- Frequent urination
- Tiredness or weakness
- Irritability
- Unexpected weight loss
- Vision changes
- Slow-healing wounds
- Frequent infections
- Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
Lifestyle Changes to Help Manage Both Conditions:
- Quit or cut down on smoking
- Eat a well-balanced diet
- Limit saturated fats and highly processed foods
- Engage in enjoyable physical activity
- Regularly check blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels
- Consider mental health screenings
Treatment Considerations:
- Some lifestyle changes and medications can improve both diabetes and HS.
- Treatments for one condition can sometimes make managing the other more difficult.
- Early treatment of diabetes is crucial to avoid serious complications.
Diet and Exercise:
- The Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of diabetes and help control blood sugar and insulin levels.
- Physical activity can help cells use insulin better and reduce HS severity.
- Ensure exercise clothing prevents skin chafing to avoid HS flare-ups.
Medications:
- Insulin is necessary for type 1 diabetes and some type 2 diabetes cases.
- Other medications can help the body make more insulin, stop making extra sugar, or use blood sugar more effectively.
- Metformin, a diabetes medication, is sometimes used to treat HS.
Potential Medication Interactions:
- Hormonal birth control pills for HS can raise blood sugar levels or increase the risk of complications.
- Corticosteroids for HS can also increase blood sugar levels.
For more detailed information, please refer to the source: [HS and Diabetes: Understanding the Connection | myHSteam](https://www.myHSteam.com/resources/hs-and-diabe...).
July 26
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