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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Severe Dry Skin, Itchy Scalp Leading To Open Wounds?

I am a 53 year old woman. I have extremely dry skin. Also broken and dry skin on feet. Lately, I've had an extremely itchy scalp which has caused me to scratch incessantly and leave open wounds on my head. I have tried coconut oil treatments to help with both. I drink lots of water. I am concerned as I have a very low immune system due to two bouts of viral meningitis and encephalitis. My sister also has Hashimodos. I have not been tested for that. Should I be? Thank you, Christine.
Mon, 29 Feb 2016
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Dentist,  's  Response
Hi Dear,

Welcome to HCM.

Understanding your concern. As per you query you have severe dry skin, itchy scalp leading to open wounds which is pointing towards a condition known as sunburn or photo allergic dermatitis . In this condition the symptoms like peeling of skin and dry patches become prominent . Some times the symptoms can also occur due to side effects of certain medicine , contact dermatitis or psoriasis . I would suggest you to wash your feet with cold water and dry the properly. Apply cold compresses to your feet 2-3 times a day. Take antihisamine drug like benadryl . Apply broad spectrum sunscreen such as TANCARE to face all the times. Apply vitamin C serum at night. If condition doesn't improve in a week then consult dermatologist for proper examination . Doctor may prescribe steroid ointment and retinoids . Doctor may also prescribe antibiotics in case of skin infection or antifungal . Doctor may also refer you to internal medicine doctor for other medical problems .

Hope your concern has been resolved.

Get Well Soon.
Best Wishes,
Dr. Harry Maheshwari
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What Causes Severe Dry Skin, Itchy Scalp Leading To Open Wounds?

Hi Dear, Welcome to HCM. Understanding your concern. As per you query you have severe dry skin, itchy scalp leading to open wounds which is pointing towards a condition known as sunburn or photo allergic dermatitis . In this condition the symptoms like peeling of skin and dry patches become prominent . Some times the symptoms can also occur due to side effects of certain medicine , contact dermatitis or psoriasis . I would suggest you to wash your feet with cold water and dry the properly. Apply cold compresses to your feet 2-3 times a day. Take antihisamine drug like benadryl . Apply broad spectrum sunscreen such as TANCARE to face all the times. Apply vitamin C serum at night. If condition doesn t improve in a week then consult dermatologist for proper examination . Doctor may prescribe steroid ointment and retinoids . Doctor may also prescribe antibiotics in case of skin infection or antifungal . Doctor may also refer you to internal medicine doctor for other medical problems . Hope your concern has been resolved. Get Well Soon. Best Wishes, Dr. Harry Maheshwari