Dermatologists are doctors that are specialized in the treatment of skin, hair, nail, and mucous membrane diseases and disorders, as well as perform cosmetic procedures. Dermatologists involve many medical procedures and non-invasive therapies to treat different conditions.
One common reason people go to see a dermatologist is because of acne however, beyond acne there are other reasons why you need to see a dermatologist.
Below are seven signs you need to see a dermatologist:
1- Eczema:
Eczema is a term for rash-like skin conditions, it can be very uncomfortable and emotionally distressing. The main symptoms of eczema are dry skin with intense itching and a red rash. It usually appears on the face, inside the elbows, behind the knees, and on hands and feet. Scratching can make the skin red and swollen, and even more itchy. Scratching can also break the skin, allowing bacteria to enter causing an infection. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis and it often begins in babies and children before age five. Babies may develop a rash on their cheeks and other parts of their body, and these rashes can leak fluid, and make it difficult for children to sleep peacefully because of itchiness.
Dermatologists can diagnose eczema with certain tests and a skin examination. Over-the-counter and prescription creams and other medicines can ease the condition. Healthy and unaffected skin usually retains sufficient moisture and protects you from external bacteria, allergens, and irritants.
2- Psoriasis:
Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes red, itchy scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp, sometimes they’re on the bottom of the feet. They can show up on the fingernails, genitals, or inside the mouth, but this is less common.
It is a common, long-term (chronic) disease with no cure and It tends to go through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months, then subsiding for a while or going into remission. Treatments are available to help you manage symptoms. Dermatologists can diagnose psoriasis by looking at a skin sample under a microscope. Creams can help soothe the skin and help it heal. Treatment also may include oral medication to suppress the overactive immune system.
3- Skin Cancer:
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. It’s also the easiest cancer to cure if diagnosed early. However, the most dangerous type of skin cancer is melanoma. It can be deadly. Several warning signs should prompt a dermatologist visit. They include skin growths that change in size, shape, color, thickness, or texture. A key warning sign of melanoma is an irregular growth that’s wider than a pencil eraser. Have a dermatologist check spot on your skin that continuously scab, crust, itch, hurt, or bleed. Routine checkups are also important. A dermatologist should examine your skin at least once a year for signs of skin cancer.
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4- Hair Loss:
Most people shed up to 100 hairs every day. However, bald patches or thinning hair could be signs of a problem. Pregnancy, stress, and a long list of health issues can lead to hair loss. It also can be an inherited condition. To find the cause of hair loss, a dermatologist may do blood tests and examine a sample of tissue from the scalp under a microscope. Medications, laser treatments, and surgical procedures are among the options that could help reduce the appearance of hair loss or restore growth.
5- Rosacea:
Rosacea is a common skin condition that usually affects the face. It often begins with redness and flushing but may lead to swelling, pimples, thickened skin, and even red, irritated eyes. It is sometimes mistaken for acne, an allergic reaction, or other skin conditions.
It is most common in middle-aged and older adults, especially women and people with fair skin. It is a long-term or lifelong disease that can’t be cured, but treatment can help symptoms.
Rosacea typically begins any time after age 30 as redness on the nose, chin, forehead, or cheeks. It may also show up on the chest, scalp, or ears. You may also notice that your eyes are affected, appearing bloodshot and watery. Rosacea may come and go, but over time, the redness becomes more persistent, and visible blood vessels often appear.
Dermatologists can help you diagnose Rosacea and make a treatment plan for you that could involve medicines and lifestyle or diet changes.
6- Skin Infection:
Skin infections are often caused by yeast, fungus, viruses, or bacteria and there’s a need for treatment from a dermatologist. The fungus can lead to nagging and itchy problems, like athlete’s foot. Viruses can cause warts and herpes. Bacterial infections of the skin, such as cellulitis, can become serious or even deadly if not treated with antibiotics. Parasites, like lice and mites, can also cause contagious, itchy skin conditions. A dermatologist can diagnose the source of the infection and determine how best to treat it.
7- Spider veins and Varicose veins:
Spider veins and varicose veins are different forms of a medical condition called venous insufficiency. In the legs, both conditions result from having weakened or damaged valves in the veins.
However, the two issues have different symptoms.
Spider veins are usually small, thin lines that may be flat or only slightly raised. They are often blue, red, or purple. Although they can cause some discomfort, they are painless most of the time.
Varicose veins are larger and deeper than spider veins. They may also appear lumpy or twisted and are usually flesh-colored or red.
Dermatologists can also inject a chemical into a problem vein to make it disappear. They also use lasers to treat spider veins and small varicose veins. During laser treatment, your dermatologist directs the laser light at the vein.