MAKE SEEING YOUR DERMATOLOGIST A HABIT LIKE VISITING YOUR DENTIST
When it comes to your health maintenance, there are several things that may automatically come to mind. You visit your primary care provider annually for a checkup. You visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and exam. You visit your eye doctor annually to get your vision checked for changes. Ladies visit their OB-GYN annually for cervical screenings. But many people do not remember to visit their area dermatologist for a yearly checkup, which should be as habitual as visiting your dentist. Your dermatologist in Missouri wants to function in this preventative role as well, with the goal of keeping your skin healthy, and early detection of any potential problems.
Why Should You See a Dermatologist Yearly
You should add an annual dermatology appointment to your list of healthy tasks along with your dentist, PCP, and optometrist appointments. Many people forget to see their dermatologist once a year, or bi-yearly if they have a history of skin cancer. Unfortunately, most people only see a dermatologist when they notice something is wrong, or there is something discovered incidentally. Skin issues like skin cancer are preventable and can be treated easily with early detection.
What Are Some Common Skin Conditions That Are Easily Treatable
With your skin being the largest body organ with a variety of functions, it is expected that there are common anomalies that can occur. Common skin conditions include:
Acne
Alopecia
Eczema or atopic dermatitis
Psoriasis
More than 50 moles
Family history of skin cancer
Suspicious moles or lesions
These conditions may be caused by genetics, environmental exposures, immune system issues, bacteria or viruses, or allergic reactions to bug bites or medications. There are many symptoms that you may not recognize, that can be detected during an annual dermatology visit. During your visit, we are able to make the connection, diagnose and treat your condition.
What About Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is the world’s most common type of cancer. About 99% of all skin cancer cases are curable with early diagnosis and treatment. Unlike other cancers, skin cancers are present “on” the body instead of “in” the body. That is why both monthly skin checks at home, along with at least annual checks by a dermatology provider are especially important. Your provider can detect the cancer before it becomes a danger, disfiguring, or fatal.