What causes itching with diabetes?
Itching is a common issue for people with diabetes, affecting 30 to 70 percent of those living with the condition. Several diabetes-related factors can contribute to this uncomfortable symptom.
High blood sugar levels can lead to dry skin, which is a major cause of itching. When you have Show Full Answer
What causes itching with diabetes?
Itching is a common issue for people with diabetes, affecting 30 to 70 percent of those living with the condition. Several diabetes-related factors can contribute to this uncomfortable symptom.
High blood sugar levels can lead to dry skin, which is a major cause of itching. When you have too much sugar in your system, your body draws fluid from your cells to produce enough urine to get rid of the extra sugar. Poor circulation related to diabetes can also cause dry skin and itchiness, especially on the lower legs.
Diabetic neuropathy, which occurs when high blood glucose levels damage nerves over time, commonly affects the legs, feet, and hands. This nerve damage can cause itching along with other sensations like burning, tingling, and numbness.
People with diabetes are also more prone to skin infections, including fungal and yeast infections, which can cause itchiness. Impaired wound healing and poor circulation from high glucose levels increase the risk of these infections.
Some specific skin conditions are more common in people with diabetes:
- Eczema causes itching, discoloration, rashes, and blisters
- Athlete's foot creates scaly, cracked, inflamed, and itchy skin, often between the toes
- Folliculitis can cause red or dark, swollen, and painful areas How can you manage itchy skin?
Maintaining good control of your blood sugar is the first step to keeping your skin healthy and reducing itchiness. Talk with your doctor or endocrinologist about getting better control of your condition.
For daily skin care:
- Wash with gentle soap and warm water
- Moisturize with lotion if your skin feels dry or tight
- Check your skin regularly, especially on your feet and lower legs
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water
A DiabetesTeam member shared: "I've found that Neutrogena makes a gel cream with hyaluronic acid that really soothes all my skin. I use it on all my eczema spots, so the itching no longer wakes me up at night."
Another member noted: "I was told that diabetes tends to become more active at night. My skin gets itchy, and it keeps me awake. But if I drink water, it tends to calm down the itch."
If your itching is severe, getting worse, or significantly interfering with your sleep, visit a dermatologist for evaluation. They may recommend topical creams, corticosteroids, phototherapy, antibiotics, or other treatments based on your specific condition.
Let your doctor know right away if you have any cuts, burns, or sores that aren't healing, as these require extra attention to prevent infections.
November 23, 2025
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