Does hypothyroidism cause dryness of the skin?

Q: My mother, 61 years old, is suffering from hypothyroidism. Her TSH level is around 10. She has developed scaly patches all over her feet and legs. What is the cause, is it because of thyroid problem? In winters, these patches become prominent and the body becomes dry.

A:Hypothyroidism can cause extreme dryness of the skin. Regular use of moisturisers & soap substitutes for bathing would help. For dry itchy patches - hydrocortisone containing moisturisers would give relief.