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7729616 tn?1393795492

Tears appearing in skin

Hi I have had two occasions where I have had small tears appearing in my skin. I don't know how they got there but I first notice them when I get a small tingle in the area. These tears occur the skin at the joints of my fingers.

I was diagnosed hypothyroid in May 2013, may this have something to do with this? I do take levothyroxine at 125mcg and my latest thyroid function tests are normal. However, I have been found to have a positive speckled anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) count (no titre) yet no inflammatory markers. Rheumatoid factor was 9 (<20).

Any help regarding this would be greatly appreciated so I can perhaps take this to the doctor. Unfortunately I don't see them until the 7th May so I would like to know if an earlier appointment may be in order. These superficial cuts although do not bleed are causing me substantial distress as they catch me out with their appearance by creating an off-putting tingle.

Thank you :)
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7729616 tn?1393795492
Hi thanks for your reply.

I use a pretty good cream to keep my skin moisturized (which I use in the morning and after showers) and that is E45 which contains a hypoallergenic form of lanolin. I have used hydrocortisone cream in the past for the skin folds in between my fingers as they go flaky but despite using this cream for the suggested course this has now returned.

I now get dry skin on my arms and this occurs even after drying my skin and applying the cream!

I use a mild soap by Palmolive that helps keep my skin soft, too, but I use this only when I wash my hands. I use a paraben-free exfoliator on my skin as well and after thoroughly drying my face I apply the E45 moisturizer.

I have attempted using cling film for protecting my hands but I found this uncomfortable.

Not sure what my new doctor will do as I see her Wednesday and I already have a lot to ask her. So I'm not sure my 10 minute slot will cover every single one of my worries...

:)
Helpful - 0
563773 tn?1374246539
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hello,
These can be due to dryness of skin which in turn is caused by thyroid causes. Minimize contact with water and use mild soap like dove for washing hands. Also hydrate and protect hands by applying a moisturizing cream. At night, repair them with creams formulated from glycolic acid—a must for improving skin texture and tone. For a more intensive nighttime treatment, apply cream and then cover hands with gloves or socks.
If the symptoms worsen or persist then please consult a dermatologist.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.
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