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Diabetes type 2 is a common condition that affects almost four million people in the UK, and 90 per cent of all cases are caused by type 2 diabetes. The condition is caused by the pancreas

not producing enough of the hormone insulin, or the body not reacting to insulin. Common diabetes signs include feeling constantly thirsty, feeling very tired and fatigued, and passing more

urine than normal. But you could also reveal your risk of diabetes by regularly checking your skin. Have you got any of these warning signs? YELLOW/BROWN PATCHES The skin condition

necrobiosis lipoidica could be a warning sign of diabetes, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The condition starts as small, raised bumps on the skin, and they look a little

like pimples. “As it progresses, these bumps turn into patches of swollen and hard skin,” it said. “The patches can be yellow, reddish, or brown.” The skin surrounding the patches may have a

shiny, porcelain-like appearance, it added. Some patients can even see the blood vessels around the patch, and it may make the affected area very itchy. DARK SKIN PATCHES Finding dark areas

of skin on the back of the neck or around the armpit could be caused by diabetes. The condition is known as acanthosis nigricans, and may be one of the very first symptoms of diabetes. “A

dark patch [or band] of velvety skin on the back of your neck, armpit, groin, or elsewhere could mean that you have too much insulin in your blood,” said the American Academy of Dermatology.

SHIN SPOTS Some diabetes patients find they develop dark spots, or lines, around their feet and on their shins. The spots appear brown, and often go unnoticed because they don’t come with

any other symptoms. “Unlike age spots, these spots and lines usually start to fade after 18 to 24 months,” it said. You should speak to a doctor if you find dark brown spots on your shins,

said the academy. RED/YELLOW BUMPS An outbreak of small, reddish/yellow bumps on the skin may be caused by diabetes. They look like regular spots when they first develop, but can go on to

become a yellowish colour. They’re most likely found on the back of the thighs, crooks of the elbow, or on the buttocks. Some patients report that the spots can be itchy, and quite tender.