Type 1 diabetes and sudden excema

[ladyp]

I have had type 1 for 45 years-on pump, in good control. I suddenly (one month ago)developed severe excema on my body--everywhere except face and feet. I itch all the time! Drs gave me cortisone creams and Claritin.  Not working.  Could it be nutritional? Am seeing info relating excema to gastrointestinal problems.  I had severe gastroparesis ten years ago, but with pump it has gotten better. I take protonix. Also chronic constipation for many years.  Any suggestions? This is driving me nuts!

[JDRF-Team-gg]

Hi Ladyp!  I am the mom of an 18 year old who was diagnosed at the age of 21 months.  I am not a medical professional, but I can hopefully shed some light on your situation and point you in the right direction.  I do have some personal experience that may help you narrow down the source of your itching.  I would begin by seeing a dermatologist to see if they feel it is diabetes related.  My daughter developed an inflammed circular and raised area below her knee when she was about eight and the first thing the dermatologist said when he looked at it was, "who has diabetes in your family?"  When I told him that she did, he told us that this was something called granuloma anulare and it was directly related to her diabetes.  I would secondly see a gastroenterologist who can check your blood for liver function, gallbladder function & other possible causes for your constipation.  Hard to believe, but they are all connected with the itching.  I am not sure about the excema, but I definitely know that liver function can produce itching problems.  Please seek further medical attention so that you can get to the bottom of your frustrating problem and good luck to you.  Let us know how you make out.

[ladyp]

Thanks for your input.  I just made an appt with my Dr. to get my functions tested.  I hope there is something I can do-at this point I would go on a water only diet if I knew it would work.