Skin Infections People with poorly controlled diabetes are prone to skin infections because elevated blood sugar reduces the effectiveness of bacteria-fighting cells. Carbuncles, boils, and other skin infections may be hazardous if not properly treated. Even a small cut may progress to a deep, open sore, called an ulcer, if not treated promptly. Sometimes, however, antibiotics are necessary. Yeast Infections People with poorly controlled diabetes may experience yeast infections in the underarms and especially in the genital-anal area.
Women sometimes suffer from severe vaginal itch or a rash under the breasts.
The first treatment is to control blood sugar, which often stops the infection. Powders, creams, and suppositories may also be recommended. In long-term diabetes, blood circulation to and from the feet decreases, slowing the healing process for foot injuries. Because nerves in the feet may not work well, you may not feel small foot injuries and therefore you may fail to treat them promptly. Untreated foot injuries can become infected or ulcerated.