Dermatologists are the doctors for your largest organ, the skin. What many people don’t realize is they also treat hair, mucous membranes, and nail disorders as well. There are over 3,000 skin conditions that they are trained to recognize and treat.
Qualifications
Dermatologists are licensed medical doctors that are certified through the American Board of Dermatology. They either have an MD (medical doctor) or have a DO (doctor of osteopathic medicine). You can find reputable dermatologists in your area on the American Academy of Dermatology website.
Common Diseases We Treat
Acne – This is one of the most common diseases that dermatologists are asked to treat. It is a skin condition that affects the oil glands in the skin. The clogged oil glands can cause pimples that can ultimately cause scarring. Acne also has the side effect of low self-esteem and depression.
Fungal Infections – Fungus can attack hair, skin, and especially nails. These infections are usually mild and treatable. Those with immune-compromised systems are more at risk for serious symptoms. Yeast infections are also infections that can infect the mucous membranes, causing oral thrush.
Vitiligo – In this condition, the skin loses melanin and leads to patches of lighter skin. It can also lead to whitening of hair on your body prematurely. There is no cure for this skin disease, but there is treatment that can slow the spreading of pigment loss.
Skin Cancer – There are several types of skin cancer, but basal cell carcinoma is one of the most common. The cancer develops as the skin is exposed to the sun. Most common location is the nose, but it can occur anywhere on the body. Tanning beds can also cause this type of cancer. It is a slow-growing cancer and it rarely spreads, so treatment options have a great prognosis.
Mohs surgery – This type of surgery is very successful for skin cancer. Layers of skin are removed and examined under the microscope to determine where the border of cancerous cells lies. More layers are removed until there are no more cancer cells present. This type of surgery requires a specialized dermatologist.
Dermatitis – This skin condition is an inflammation of the skin that can lead to a rash and swelling. It is also very itchy, which can cause you to scratch and give rise to skin infection possibilities. There are treatments that can help ease the effects of dermatitis and keep it from flaring up.
Rosacea – This is a condition characterized by blushing or redness in the face. It is most often found in the nose, forehead, ears, and chin. This condition can lead to broken blood vessels and swollen eyelids.
Hair Disorders – There are many people that suffer from hair loss. The condition could be alopecia or a specific issue. There are also those who suffer from hair lice, which can be treated as well.
Nail Problems – Most nail problems include fungal infections. Other times there are ingrown toenails that can cause issues with walking and even possibilities of infection.
If you think you may be suffering from any of these conditions, call Batesville, AR dermatologist Dr. Patrick Hatfield for a complete checkup.