Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by first seeing your family doctor or a general practitioner. He or she may treat you or refer you to a specialist in skin disorders (dermatologist).

What you can do

Preparing a list of questions beforehand can help you make the most of your time with your doctor. For tinea versicolor, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• How did I get tinea versicolor?
• What are other possible causes?
• Do I need any tests?
• Is tinea versicolor temporary or long lasting?
• What treatments are available, and which do you recommend?
• What side effects can I expect from treatment?
• How long will it take for my skin to return to normal?
• Can I do anything to help, such as avoid the sun at certain times or wear a specific sunscreen?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?
• Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing me?
• Do you have brochures or other printed material I can take home? What websites do you recommend?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, such as:

• How long have you had these discolored areas on your skin?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• Have you had this or a similar condition in the past?
• Do the affected areas itch?
• Does anything seem to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?