What Causes Extremely Dry Skin, Especially On Legs?

Posted on Mon, 1 Dec 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 1 Dec 2014 Answered on

Thu, 18 Dec 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Am sleeping 10-12 hours per day for the past month which is a whole new experience for me. Have always needed at least 8 hours. My skin is also drier than normal although I have always had dry skin, especially on my legs. Have recently retired at age 67 and moved to a different state 3 months ago. Have been thinking that these symptoms may be just part of adjusting to new circumstances and environment. The climate in my new location is not that much different than previous location but the water is harder here. The only medication I take is citalopram. Have not had blood work done for about 2 years. Last blood work had good results. Did have a thyroid tumor removed about 30 years ago. Wondering if I might need thyroid medication.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Hi and welcome to HCM

Detailed Answer:
Well, first you should definitely check your thyroid hormonal levels which can be cause of your symptoms. Also other hormones such as cortisole, estrogen and insuline may have effect on your condition and supplemental hormones can be taken if needed. second, some hypovitaminosis and electrolyte disbalans can cause it as well so check your clacium, potassium and magnesium levels and take vitamin supplements, ckeck your red blood picture too. if nothing is found then some environmental factors can be considered such as diet or whether. Thirdly, psychological changes,depression, anxiery and stress can contribute to sleepoiness and fatigue. if you take citalopram for long time then it may be time to switch medicine since resistency may develop- Wish you good health. Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar