As one of the fast-growing fields in medicine, dermatology is rather misinterpreted. Dermatologists may seem elementary relative to healthcare specialists like pulmonologists or cardiologists, yet dermatology is a crucial discipline of medicine. If you are still trying to understand why individuals see a dermatologist, here is why. The medical dermatology Washington specialists offer top-level dermatologic care for numerous concerns affecting the skin, nails, and hair. Arrange an appointment to discuss your concerns to determine if you are the right candidate for dermatologic care. Meanwhile, here is what you should know.
What Exactly Is Dermatology?
Dermatology concentrates on your skin, the biggest body organ and a vital component of one’s immune system. Dermatologists are doctors who focus on treating all issues affecting this vital organ.
Moreover, your dermatologist can treat issues involving hair, nail, and mucus membranes like the mouth, nose, and eyes. Dermatologists handle patients of different ages and disorders, ranging from aesthetic concerns to life-threatening malignancies.
Why Visit A Dermatologist?
Typical reasons patients should seek a dermatologist include skin problems like psoriasis, rashes, acne, and more. Numerous individuals also visit a dermatologist for screening to determine whether any of their moles are precancerous or malignant and require treatment.
Moreover, warning signs and symptoms of many health issues manifest first on the skin. For example, acanthosis nigricans is a skin issue that often foreshadows prediabetes. Early intervention can help avoid your condition from progressing to type II diabetes.
Who Needs A Dermatologist Consultation?
It is a prevalent misconception that only individuals with fair skin are susceptible to developing skin cancer. In reality, though, anybody can develop skin cancer. However, for individuals with darker skin, their condition is detected in the more advanced stages since the lesions are hard to identify.
Anybody with weakened immunity or undergone an organ transplant is also at a higher risk for developing skin cancer. As such, these persons must get regular dermatologist exams.
How To Get Ready For Your Initial Consultation?
Develop a habit of performing routine self-examinations on your skin. Note the location and appearance of your moles, and keep track of any variations so you can inform your physician. Your dermatologist will pay special attention to moles that grow, change texture, shape, and color, and any spots that bleed, ooze, or itch.
Before your visit, you must also clean nail paint from your toes and fingers. Your dermatologist will inspect the skin beneath your fingernails because skin cancer could grow there.
How Is A Dermatology Appointment?
Your provider will probably request you wear the patient gown. Therefore, wear comfortable, loose clothing. The appointment begins with your dermatologist examining your skin. Ensure you highlight any skin changes or areas that are itchy.
Your doctor will assist you in determining your skin cancer risk, the frequency with which you should conduct self-examinations, and what to look out for. Your doctor will also probably suggest a schedule for your screenings.
A huge part of dermatology focuses on preventive care. At Integrated Dermatology of 19th Street, your doctor will assist you in better maintaining your body’s health by recognizing and addressing problem areas early. Once an issue is identified early, there is a higher chance of successful treatment. Arrange an appointment through mobile or request online to discuss your concerns and explore available care options.
