Health Tips for August 10

Health Tip: Caring for a Diabetic's Skin

People with diabetes may be concerned with their heart, eyes and nerves. But don't forget the body's largest organ.

As many as one-third of diabetics develop a skin disorder, the American Diabetes Association says.

The association offers these skin care suggestions:

• Make sure your skin is always clean and dry. Sprinkle some talcum powder in areas where skin touches other skin, such as under the arms and in the groin area.
• Take lukewarm, not hot, showers and baths, and always use a gentle moisturizing soap.
• Moisturize your skin with a good lotion, just not between the toes, which can encourage fungal growth.
• Promptly wash any cuts or scrapes with water and soap, and protect them with a gauze pad.
• See your doctor about any skin wounds that appear serious or that don't seem to heal.

Health Tip: Understanding Pre-Diabetes

Before some people develop full-blown diabetes, their blood sugar is above normal, but not high enough to qualify for a diagnosis of diabetes.

This condition is called pre-diabetes, the American Diabetes Association says.

Normally, a person's blood sugar (glucose) is 100 mg/dl or below. When it rises to between 100 mg/dl and 125 mg/dl, a person has pre-diabetes. Once a blood test determines that blood sugar is 126 mg/dl or higher, diabetes is diagnosed, the ADA says.

If you have pre-diabetes, you should discuss with your doctor making lifestyle changes including modest weight loss and getting regular exercise. This can help prevent pre-diabetes from turning into the full-blown disease.