Читать книгу Eczema: Your essential guide - Regina Malan - Страница 11

Only an eczema sufferer knows what it feels like to experience this disruptive condition. Only you know how much it itches, how painful and unsightly it is. You know how difficult it is to adapt your daily routines to accommodate your eczema. You know how terrible you feel when other people shun you and sometimes even look at you in horror. Eczema involves your body and your health. You, therefore, have the right to try to obtain as much information as possible from your doctor in order to improve your quality of life. The more you know and the better you understand the condition, the more effectively you will be able to manage it and prevent new acute flare-ups.

The questions you ask your doctor may involve matters such as the diagnosis itself, medication, alternative remedies and resources, the cost of medical treatment, and emotional issues.

A few questions you might ask your doctor:

•What is eczema? Tell me more about the condition.

•What is the difference between eczema and psoriasis? Is it possible to suffer from both?

•What is the best medical treatment for eczema?

•How long can I use the medication and what are the side effects?

•How soon can I expect to see results?

•Are there alternative treatment options available?

•What should I do if my symptoms worsen?

•What can I do to prevent future flare-ups?

You have the right to ask your doctor a lot of questions. Knowledge and information are the keys to enabling you to manage your eczema successfully.

•Does the sun play a role in my eczema?

•Do I have to modify my diet?

•Should I alternate my skin care routine according to the seasons?

•Do I have to see a specialist?

Eczema is in your genes and is thus an inseparable part of who you are. For the most effective treatment the right diagnosis is essential. You should also have all the relevant information made available to you. The aim of treatment is to control the condition to such an extent that you hardly ever experience symptoms.

Most doctors are sympathetic and understand the adverse impact of eczema on you and your life. There may, however, be exceptions and if you are not satisfied with the care provided by a particular doctor, be sure to consult another one. Because eczema is a long-term condition and will require frequent return visits to ensure effective management of the condition, it is very important to have a good relationship with your medical specialist.