Rosacea is a condition that may cause embarrassment for many patients. The redness, pimples and bumps may make some feel self-conscious and seek medical advice for treating or coping with these symptoms. Before leaving for a consultation or appointment, patients should familiarize themselves with the condition, which will help them ask the right questions.
Understand the Condition
The doctor will usually explain the condition and will go over its possible causes (although the exact cause is unknown), symptoms and treatments. However, going into a consultation with some level of knowledge of rosacea will allow patients to focus on more specific questions rather than the big picture. SkinCareGuide.com has several pages dedicated to understanding rosacea and its causes, symptoms and treatments.
What the Doctor May Ask
During an appointment, the doctor will perform a physical exam to diagnose rosacea. Tests may be performed to rule out other conditions or skin diseases. The doctor will likely examine the face, neck and upper part of the chest. During the appointment, the doctor may ask when symptoms first appeared, how often they appear and whether they appear frequently or infrequently. Other questions to determine what may trigger flare ups of symptoms are also common.
Questions to Ask the Doctor
There are a number of questions you may want to consider asking the specialist during your consultation. Review these questions, and add some of your own if you have them, before you go to your appointment. Writing them down may help you remember them better. ﾕ What may be triggering my symptoms? ﾕ What lifestyle changes should I make to avoid flare ups of symptoms? ﾕ What are my treatment options? ﾕ Which treatment do you recommend? ﾕ Are there alternatives to your recommended treatment? Patients should not be shy about asking questions and should form some of their own questions as well. A physician is the best resource for medical information, so it is important to take advantage of the opportunity to ask questions.
