WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DERMATOLOGISTS
Dermatology is a medical and surgical specialty dealing with treating skin, nails and hair and the diseases that come with these part of the body. A dermatologist is a specially trained doctor who examines and treats malignant and benign skin disorders. Dermatologists treat disease as well as cosmetic problems of the skin, scalp, hair, adjacent mucous membranes, and nails. Many are trained in dermatological surgery, are skilled diagnosticians and provide medical care for moles, cancers, melanomas, and other types of tumors. Dermatologists also interpret biopsies, recognize marks of systemic and infectious diseases, and manage contact dermatitis and additional inflammatory disorders.
KINDS OF DERMATOLOGISTS
The field of dermatology is expansive with many subspecialties. There are four main types of dermatology specialists:
- Dermatopathologists: Though widely trained in pathology, dermatopathology is a subspecialty of dermatology and pathology that specializes in the study of cutaneous disease.
- Cosmetic Dermatologists: Cosmetic dermatology is a subspecialty focusing on aesthetics, correcting such flaws as wrinkles, scars and acne.
- Pediatric Dermatologists: The majority of pediatric dermatology focuses on dermatitis originating from allergy, hives, warts, birthmarks, acne and other issues specific to children.
- Immunodermatologists: Immunodermatology focuses on how skin and immunity are related. There are several subspecialties, including photo-immunology, inflammatory diseases such as eczema, autoimmune skin disease and immunology of microbial skin disease such as leprosy.
FOUR OTHER SURPRISING REASONS TO SEE A DERMATOLOGIST
Besides the more common reasons to visit a dermatologist, here are some other conditions or symptoms that a dermatologist can treat:
- Irritated and red eyes: Dermatologists are trained to treat conditions of the mucous membranes including common infections such as conjunctivitis, more commonly known as “pink eye”.
- Anxiety and Depression: Certain inflammatory skin conditions, such as psoriasis, have been linked to mental health issues. If you are experiencing skin or nail issues alongside a mental health issue, it’s important to see a dermatologist.
- Genital bumps: You wouldn’t think to visit a dermatologist for issues in your private areas, but often rashes in this area are caused by fungal or bacterial infections and a dermatologist can offer the best treatment options.
- Mouth sores: Mouth sores can be an indication of an autoimmune disorder or other underlying immune issues, and dermatologists are specifically trained to treat this ailment.
HOW DO I SEE A DERMATOLOGIST?
If you are here reading our blog, you may already be ready to make an appointment. It is important to find out if your insurance covers the dermatologic services you are seeking. Many insurance plans will not cover cosmetic dermatology, but it’s not a given. Before your first appointment, consider the following to prepare:
- Make a list of any supplements or medications you are taking, including dosage.
- If you are having the dermatologist check your face, avoid applying heavy cosmetics.
- Write down any questions you may have so you don’t forget to bring them up during the visit.
Some dermatological needs can be taken care of with home treatments or remedies but to be safe, seek out a dermatologist with any questions. A dermatologist doesn’t just diagnose and treat, but also is concerned about patient education.
At Adult & Pediatric Dermatology our caring professionals are here to help. Give your skin the attention it deserves and call us at 913-469-1115 to make an appointment today!