Health and winter and is associated with itchy skin with or without a mild rash anywhere on the body. It is thought that the dry, cold air of those seasons precipitates the symptoms, often aggravated by hot showers and baths. Treatment includes decreasing the frequency and temperature of bathing, using roomhumidification, avoiding contact with wool or flannel, daily application of moisturizing creams and occasional use of over-the-counter topical cortisone cream for locally developed rashes. Some wise doctors suggest a winter stay in warmer climates! Shingles is now largely a preventable disease if all adults, whether having knowledge of chicken pox or not in childhood, take advantage of the new shingles vaccine, Shingrex. Although most Canadians will have to pay for this vaccine, it is more than 90% effective in preventing this painful skin rash that can, in some cases, lead to complications and lifelong pain. It is estimated that a third of persons will get shingles if not protecting themselves with this safe vaccine. The vaccination involves two injections from two to six months apart and can cost about $250, unless subsidized as it is in some provinces. Private insurance benefits may provide coverage and, in Ontario, the vaccination is free for persons between the ages of 65 and 70. Check with your doctor to see if you should get this protection. Psoriasis is another common skin condition presenting as red patches of skin with thick silvery scales. Often itchy or sore, the affected areas are usually the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back. The condition is more frequent when there is a family history and is believed to be related to an immune system problemwith certain white blood cells in the body. Treatment varies with the location and extent of the disease and is usually dealt with by a dermatologist, as it can often be quite resistant to treatment. There is often the development of a number of complications, a common one being psoriatic arthritis. Numerous other conditions can occur with our skin, especially as we age. Most can be treated with home remedies and prescribed topical medications. If you develop abnormal skin signs and symptoms, see your physician for proper diagnosis and followup, all the while remembering that you can often do a lot to prevent or alleviate common skin conditions with appropriate measures, the most important − even as seniors − is protecting yourself from the sun. 34 | www.snowbirds.org
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