What Causes Constant Skin Infection While Using Subcutaneous Insulin?

Posted on Sat, 14 Nov 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 14 Nov 2015 Answered on

Sat, 5 Dec 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Im type 1 diabetic as of 5 yrs ago. Ive byen on insulin pump now the infursion sets wont staysing on so Im back to using pens. My skin has had sores for last year. 4 derm cant figure it out. Question is: My skin is also tough and Im having hard time with injections. Im thin and dont have a lot of fluff. Ive resorted to top of arms. Ideas?

Don't understand why I keep getting skin infections. I also have short bowel syndrome so my my body doesnt absorb like its suppose to. Is there a vitamin I should be getting more of to help skin?? I already take vit b12 shot and mega vit d.

Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It's because of insulin.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
I am Dr Mittal.
I have read your message.
I think I can help you.
The symptoms of the query are quite often due to use of subcutaneous insulin.
The skin becomes tough due to the injection at the same site.
The best options for healing is to keep changing the site.
Use arms and thighs and abdomen.
Of course almosr any part can be used.
I have tried to make it as simple as possible. I hope that the information contained in this message will be able to help you find the best solution for your problem. Best of luck. Dr Mittal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar