Dry skin is a common problem, especially in older people because of changes in the skin from aging. As you get older you lose sweat glands and oil glands.
Sometimes dry skin is a symptom of illness or a side effect of medicine.
These symptoms may cause you to scratch your skin more. Scratching can irritate the skin and the skin may get infected. Signs that an area of skin may be infected are redness, swelling, pain, or unusual warmth.
If these suggestions do not improve your dry skin, get advice from your healthcare provider. Your provider may do some tests or may refer you to a doctor who specializes in skin problems (a dermatologist).
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Published by RelayHealth.
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
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