Skin problems can often be ignored. Your skin, however, is the largest organ in your body and can tell you a lot about your health. Skin that becomes thick and itchy could be a sign that there is something going on internally. The following medical conditions could cause your skin to thicken:
- Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP): this is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition
- Psoriasis: a chronic skin condition in which your body makes new skin cells faster than old skin cells are cast off
- Hypothyroidism: A common disorder that occurs when your thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone
If you notice raised patches of skin that are thick, red, or itchy, you should talk to your doctor. They can perform blood tests to get to the root of the problem. Once they know the cause, they can determine an appropriate treatment plan.