Know What To Expect On Your First Visit To A Dermatologist

Published on: 09 January 2019 Last Updated on: 08 August 2019

A visit to a dermatology clinic may be required for a variety of reasons, from persistent acne to chronic rashes, severe sunburns, suspected skin diseases and appearance of suspicious-looking moles. Alternatively, you may choose to visit a clinic for purely cosmetic reasons such as hair loss and age-related problems. Whichever may be your concern, you need to know what to expect when you visit a skin specialist for the first time. Here are a few things that you should know before your first visit to a dermatologist.

You should not wear makeup when you go for an appointment:

You may be habitual to wearing makeup like concealer and foundation to cover the flaws and imperfections but these are the very reason that you are visiting a skin clinic for. On your end, you should ensure that you arrive with clean skin, preferably without makeup so that the doctor can assess your skin properly.

Even if you do wear your makeup to the clinic, you will probably be asked to remove it for the specialist to get a closer look at your skin. Ideally, you should follow the daily clean and care routine that you normally do and then step in for the appointment in your natural skin.

You will be asked questions about your complete medical history:

To start with, the dermatological appointment will be quite similar to that with a general practitioner because the doctor would want to know your complete medical history first. You will be asked questions related to your medical history, health issues, routine medications, allergies, family history, and current symptoms. It is important to disclose all the facts because several skin issues are not just superficial and may point to underlying causes.

Skin Doctors in Philadelphia recommend that patients get all the facts on paper so that they remember everything that they need to share with the doctor. Also, keep a list of over-the-counter products and cosmetics that you use in the routine. Share information about your daily skin care routine as well.

You will get a full body examination:

If it is your first visit to a dermatologist’s clinic, expect a full body examination even if you are there only for getting a consultation for acne. The doctor would want to check thoroughly for any anomalies and suspicious moles, which could be early symptoms of some major concerns like skin cancer. You will be asked to disrobe and wear a gown so that the doctor can examine you from head to toe.

The dermatologist may use an instrument called dermatoscope, which resembles a magnifying glass, to assess the lesions more closely. Try not to be apprehensive because this is done to detect any skin problems early because timely diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference.

You should have your questions ready:

After answering all the questions related to your medical history, you should have your own questions ready too. If there are specific problems that you experience or suspect an allergy or drug reaction, convey it to the doctor. You may also ask them about the optimal skin care routine that you should follow for your skin type. Check out the insurance-related formalities if you are recommended an expensive procedure.

Be honest and open with your queries as this is your chance to clarify everything with an expert. Concealing concerns and information will not help your treatment. Rest assured that your specialist is the best person to help you overcome even the most embarrassing skin issues.

You will get a prescription if needed:

Once the specialist gets all the information and performs a thorough physical examination, he or she will have a probable diagnosis. Further testing may be recommended in case of any suspicious diagnosis. On the other hand, you may be given a prescription of the dermatologist has a confirmed diagnosis of the condition you are suffering from. Further, there will be some instructions related to medication and general skin care routine.

The doctor may also recommend a revisit after a certain period of time to assess the condition after completing a course of medication. Ask for scheduling a re-appointment for the next date if possible or understand the procedure for the same if you need to book from home.

Knowing what to expect right at your first appointment with your skin doctor will go a long way in making it a success. It will help you ask the right questions and give the right answers, which ensures the best possible treatment and fast and effective results for even the most complex problems.

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How to Treat the Symptoms of 5 Common Gastrointestinal Conditions

Everyone experiences heartburn from time to time or has the occasional upset stomach. But for those who experience these symptoms more frequently, it could be a sign of long-term Gastrointestinal Conditions. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 60 to 70 million people in the U.S. are affected by gastrointestinal issues. But what exactly is a" gastrointestinal issue," and what parts of your body can experience the impact? Gastrointestinal Health 101 The gastrointestinal system gives your body what it needs to function. The system breaks down food, extracts nutrients from it, and converts these nutrients into energy. It also protects your body against harmful substances by blocking them from your bloodstream. The gastrointestinal tract primarily consists of the following: Esophagus: A hollow tube running through the neck and chest that connects the mouth to the stomach. Muscles in the esophagus push food into the stomach. Stomach: A large organ that holds foods and breaks them down using enzymes and acids. Liver: The organ that filters toxins from the blood and produce bile, which further helps break down food into proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Gallbladder: A sac-like organ that stores the bile the liver produces then releases it as necessary. Pancreas: An organ that produces enzymes like insulin, which aids in the breakdown of sugars. Small intestine: As the stomach passes along food, this organ starts breaking it down while absorbing the majority of its nutrients. Large intestine: This organ contains billions of bacteria that turn food into waste (feces). At this same time, the large intestines remove water and electrolytes from what is left of the food for your body's use. Rectum: A small space at the end of the large intestine provides temporary storage for waste. When you eat something, each of these organs plays a role. To kick off the process, saliva begins to break down food. 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If you experience severe pain or think you may have a more serious condition, see your doctor as soon as possible. 1. Celiac Disease Celiac disease is an immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. People with this problem cannot eat food made from these substances because it triggers a response in their small intestine, which over time becomes inflamed and unable to absorb nutrients. If you have celiac disease, you'll feel sick after eating something with gluten. Symptoms include bloating and gas, abdominal pain, fatigue, and nausea. Though there's presently no cure, most people who follow a strict gluten-free diet can reduce flare-ups and promote intestinal healing. 3. GERD Gastroesophageal reflux disease (or GERD) is a condition where your stomach acid flows back into your esophagus, irritating the esophagus's lining. It is essentially the same as acid reflux, except the symptoms are more intense and frequent. Common symptoms include a burning sensation in your chest after eating, having difficulty swallowing, and feeling like there's a lump in your throat. You may also regurgitate food or sour liquid. People with GERD often feel worse at night, which can cause other problems like a chronic cough, laryngitis, asthma, and disrupted sleep. There are over-the-counter remedies such as antacids and H2 blockers, but more intense symptoms may require prescription medication. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, eating large meals, or eating late at night can aggravate GERD. 3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common GI disorder that affects the large intestine. If you have this chronic condition, you will feel abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, certain factors play a role. Someone with IBS may have abnormalities in their digestive system or may have had a bacterial or viral infection that left an overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines. Changes in gut microbes can also lead to IBS. Though there is no cure for IBS, taking medications, and making lifestyle changes can alleviate the symptoms. For example, you can exercise regularly, eat smaller meals, and focus on minimizing stress. In terms of regulating your diet, you can try consuming more probiotics and limiting caffeine, dairy products, and spicy foods. Medicalprices.co.uk has a complete guide about IBS. 4. Lactose Intolerance Lactose intolerant individuals cannot break down lactose, the natural sugar in milk. If you're lactose intolerant, your small intestine doesn't produce enough lactase (the enzyme) to digest lactose (the milk sugar). Undigested lactose then moves into your large intestine, where it interacts with the bacteria, causing bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Aside from avoiding dairy products altogether, lactose intolerants can take over-the-counter lactase enzyme tablets that aid in dairy digestion. 5. Leaky Gut Syndrome As part of the digestive tract, the intestines allow water and nutrients to pass through their walls while blocking harmful substances. The ease with which substances pass through the intestinal wall is called intestinal permeability. When this permeability becomes compromised, toxins and bacteria may escape from the intestines into the bloodstream. This condition is called a leaky gut syndrome, and if left unchecked, it can cause inflammation throughout the body. Symptoms may include bloating, gas, food sensitivity, fatigue, and skin problems. Though more research needs to be conducted on this condition, a few probable causes include: Consuming too much sugar or alcohol Long term use of anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen Deficiencies in vitamins A and D and zinc Chronic inflammation throughout the body Stress Bacterial imbalance in the intestines Yeast overgrowth in the digestive system To reduce symptoms, you can work on improving your overall gut health. First, you can limit your carb intake, as harmful bacteria thrive on sugar. You can also increase the number of beneficial bacteria in your body by eating foods with probiotics such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut. You may also want to consider powdered collagen protein supplements. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that gives structure to connective tissues, ligaments, and skin. The protein also provides structure to blood vessels and may strengthen compromised intestinal walls. Avoiding a Pain in the Gut While some gastrointestinal conditions can be severe, other GI issues and symptoms are common and manageable with lifestyle changes. If you maintain a healthy diet with your unique gastrointestinal needs in mind, you can treat your symptoms and live free of gut pain. 6 Effective Ways to Improve Your Mental Health Why Water Filter is Important to Improve Your Health? Symptoms and Effects of Co-occurring Disorder on Human Health 10 healthy habits to improve your health

Varicose Veins: Why They Appear And How To Treat Them

Having spider veins or varicose veins may affect more than your appearance. Such veins can cause severe malaise. Many varicose veins put you at risk on your legs for a complication like open sores, or blood clot. Minimally invasive treatments such as endovenous laser treatments can eliminate or fade the nerves in the legs. Treatment may also reduce symptoms such as pain and fatigue, and may also prevent complications. Why Varicose Veins Develop Varicose veins and spider veins are vulnerable veins. As small, one-way valves within the veins relax, they weaken. Such valves move blood in one command in safe veins back to our hearts. When these valves fail, blood flows backward and builds up in the vein. The blood which is extra in the bloodstream puts pressure on the vein walls. The venous walls weaken and bulge with continuous pressure. As this continues to happen, varicose or spider veins start to appear. Some individuals are at a higher risk of these veins forming. You have a higher risk if blood relatives do have them. Most people get them because most days of the week, they sit or stand for long periods. During pregnancy and age, such veins get more populated. How Varicose Veins Are Treated There are several ways to treat spider veins. Dermatologists recommend different types of treatments. Keep reading to find out what these are. Sclerotherapy Treatment Sclerotherapy is the most common treatment of varicose veins in the legs. Dermatologists have developed sclerotherapy over the years to make it safer and give better outcomes to the patients. Sclerotherapy allows the vein walls to bind together so that the blood can no longer flow through it. It increases circulation and decreases swelling in the treated leg. Spider veins disappear usually within 3 to 6 weeks. It can take around 3 to 4 months for varicose veins to fade. You may need 2 or 3 treatments to get the best results. These treatments may be performed by a dermatologist during an office visit. You won’t need anesthesia. Endovenous Laser Therapy and Radiofrequency Ablation Newer therapies include EVLT and RFA. Both treatments work to destroy veins from the inside. EVLT is used by dermatologists to treat spider veins and small varicose veins. RFA is used in the treatment of large venous varicosities. Here’s what happens when you get these treatments: You are given local anesthesia, which numbs the treatment area. The anesthesia causes swelling in the area too. The dermatologist then makes a small incision and implants a laser or catheter fiber (for EVLT) into the vein. The laser or radiofrequency tool that heats up the vein is triggered by your dermatologist, causing it to collapse and seal off. A compression stocking will be put on each leg after treatment. You'll need to take daily walks and wear the compression stockings as instructed to help prevent possible side effects. Most patients wear 1 to 2 weeks of compression stockings You can try any of these treatments but don’t pick either without consulting your doctor first. They will be able to guide you best! Read Also: 7 Signs Which Ind5 Most Exciting Facial Treatments of 2018 - For Smooth, Gorgeous Skinicate That You Need To See a Vein Specialist Right Now Cannabis can Help in the Fight Against Drug Addiction

Are You Wondering About The Risk Factors For Depression?

Many people tend to think of depression as a temporary phase where someone is sad, and this makes many think that you need to get out of that emotional state. However, the illness is much more than that, as it is the result of changes in the chemistry of the brain. Like all other conditions that can develop in your body, there are risk factors that raise the chances of you getting the illness, although it is possible you can develop it without the risk factors being present. However, it should be kept in mind that your risk of developing the illness is higher when there are more risk factors, so you need to ask your doctor about reducing these factors. The risk can be related to a combination of various circumstances such as environmental, psychological, and genetic ones. The NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health) estimates that almost 16 million Americans have experienced a major episode of depression. 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However, it can also develop when there is no family history of the illness, and this is why it is termed as a combination of life events and genetic reasons. Sleep disorders: There is a reason why your body needs sleep, as it is able to reduce the buildup of cortisol in the body, a stress hormone that is good for short periods but causes stress to the body when it stays for long periods. Because of this, it is not surprising to find that people who struggle with sleep disorders will also tend to develop depression, especially those who suffer from insomnia – leading to bouts of low moods. Suffering from chronic illnesses: Because these conditions will cause you stress and pain, they can also take a heavy toll on your mental health. These include chronic pain, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, heart diseases, stroke, thyroid disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. Social risks: Abuse: When a person goes through any form of abuse, whether as a child, teen or adult, they have a major risk of developing the condition, and also developing other mental illnesses as well. This abuse can range from emotional, physical, verbal or sexual abuse. Gender factors: Men are generally less at risk of developing depression compared to women, but this might be because there are more women who are open to seeking treatment for their symptoms compared to men. Some people also believe that the illness is due to changes in hormone levels throughout the person’s life. In fact, women are vulnerable to developing the illness when they are pregnant and also after childbirth (postpartum depression), in addition to developing it during menopause. The lack of a strong support system: When a person spends a lot of time in isolation, and they have very few support systems or friends, it can be a common source of depression. It is important to note that this is not the same as introversion, and is more described as a feeling of loneliness or extreme changes in a person relating to their moods and emotions. The occurrence of major events: This is among the most common reasons for developing depression, mainly relating to stressful or sad events. These include losing a job, divorce or breaking off a relationship, retirement from a job, moving to a new place, and death of a close loved one. If a major event has occurred in your life and you have experienced sadness for more than two months without getting better, then it is best to see your doctor so that you can go through tests for depression. Substance abuse risk factors: Abuse of drugs and alcohol: For many people who are struggling with substance abuse, it is mainly tied to mental health disorders, including depression. This is also known as dual diagnosis, and there are various rehab facilities that can help a person struggling with it, such as Colorado substance abuse treatment centers. It is also important to note that drug abuse leads to significant changes in the brain, which in turn increase your risk of developing depression. Many people who have developed depression symptoms also tend to self-medicate as well, which increases their symptoms and overall risk. The use of certain medication: There are some medicines that raise the risk of developing depressive symptoms as a side effect, and they include blood pressure medication, steroids, prescription painkillers, sleeping pills, and sedatives. Other factors: Psychological reasons: There are some psychological factors that will increase the risk of developing depressive symptoms. For instance, if you have low self-esteem, this makes you view your world through a pessimistic outlook, and raises your risk of depression. It will also leave you with an overwhelming feeling of stress and sadness. There is also the case of perfectionism increasing your risk, as you do not see things going the way you want them. It also makes you very sensitive to errors, rejection, and losses, which increases your risk of developing the condition. In addition, if you are suffering from another mental illness, such as chronic anxiety disorder, as well as avoidant and borderline personality disorders, your risk of getting depression is significantly higher. Low socioeconomic status: You may not think much about it, but it is a major risk factor for the development of the disease. It may be due to cultural reasons, social status, stressful environments, and so on. Final thoughts: If you know someone struggling with the illness or you are struggling with it, it is very important to seek medical help. The illness is not well understood, as it is a complex medical condition. The good news is that is easy to treat and manage. 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Know What To Expect On Your First Visit To A Dermatologist

You should not wear makeup when you go for an appointment: