Dermatologist?

[LozzieJHall]

Does everyone here have a dermatologist. I have never seen one and have been back and forth to many drs over my life. Just wondering whether I have missed out?!

[Hidden]

Most docs just dismis it .. MISS point is inflammatory disease.

The under inpresion just a pot of cream will cure it BUT if your psoriasis is more than skin deep is it not better to treat hole process.

My doc was advised by podiatry foot people to refer me to dermatologist BUT my doc dismissed it as he could treat it.

I have been toying with idea of checking my own DNA with 23andMe even tried getting healthunlocked to open page to DNA but some gov's states dont like you knowing what gene mutations we have NEVER mind talking about them.

Why is the question ?

[BonnieSue]

I've managed my psoriasis using a coal tar shampoo followed by a nice smelling shampoo for decades. Now I don't seem to have it anymore, but I still have the PsA. I have about 7 dermatological diagnoses, several of which required a dermatologist to resolve. For those I am very happy to have had a good Dermy. I do live in Florida, USA, which causes extra incidental sun exposure and thus the extra skin problems, I suppose.

I don't specifically spend time in the sun on purpose. I do have rosacea, but only a rare outbreak. I've had some other occasional bad outbreaks of odd things I had to have a Dermy for. So having one has been necessary for me. It may be due to a compromised immune system, but I don't really know.

[tallgal]

Hi I've seen a dermatologist on a couple of occasions when my psoriasis has flared. In Scotland my GP is happy to refer me though I do have to wait 3 months for the appointment to come through. Once I was given sun treatment which meant a half hour journey each way 3 times a week for 10 weeks. Quite a hefty petrol bill! but it worked. However now I'm told a recent problem is more likely sun damage so sun treatment is not recommended. I find Exorex, a tar based product, the best of the bunch.

[lankisterguy]

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, demonstrating that something is out of balance in our immune system, in addition to the aging process that makes our immunity less effective.

Small skin blemishes can easily grow into dangerous cancers if not detected and treated early.

Having annual full body visual skin exams by a conscientious dermatologist (preferably one focused on cancer treatments not those pushing beauty creams) can quickly sort out the cancers and remove most of them quickly. The exams are quick and painless.

The same visits can update treatment options for Psoriasis.

[Hidden]

I think it would be as well to ask for a referral. A dermatologist might not treat your psoriasis any differently from your GP, but there again they may have some fresh ideas, they're the experts!

And also, if your psoriasis worsens you'd already have established links with your local dermy dept. which could make things that bit easier. And of course if you are having any problems getting your GP to refer you to Rheumatology, it could be that your dermatologist would make the referral.

I sound like I really enjoy seeing different doctors, don't I?! I so don't! I just want to make sure that if there's a drug or therapy out there that will help me get on with my life, then I can access it.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Ad not worry bout it my doctor said I have quite a medical team behind me a said a know but why do I still feel like s###

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

I'm so sorry you're having a rough time. I gather you've got quite a lot going on. I always think things will turn out okay but chronic disease is just plain testing, sometimes more than others. I have times when I despair or just feel incredibly bored by it all.