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Skin Problems & Treatments Health Center

Dry Skin and Itching - When to Call a Health Professional

Call your health professional if any of the following symptoms are present:

  • You itch all over your body but there is no obvious cause or rash.
  • Itching is so bad that you cannot sleep, and home treatment is not helping.
  • Your skin is badly broken from scratching.
  • You see signs of infection, including:
    • Increased pain, swelling, redness, warmth, or tenderness.
    • Red streaks extending from the area.
    • Discharge of pus.
    • Fever of 100 F or higher with no other cause.
    • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: March 15, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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