Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your primary care doctor. He or she might refer you to a doctor who specializes in skin disorders (dermatologist).

Because appointments can be brief, it's a good idea to be well-prepared for your appointment.

What you can do

• List your signs and symptoms, including when they began and how long they've lasted.
• Avoid any substances that you think may have caused the rash.
• Make notes about any new products you've started using and any substances that regularly come in contact with your affected skin areas.
• Make a list of all the medications and supplements you take. Even better, take along the original bottles and a list of the dosages and directions. Include any creams or lotions you're using.
• List questions to ask your doctor.

For contact dermatitis, some basic questions you could ask your doctor include:

• What might be causing my signs and symptoms?
• Are tests needed to confirm the diagnosis?
• What treatments are available, and which do you recommend?
• Is this condition temporary or chronic?
• Can I wait to see if the condition goes away on its own?
• Will scratching spread the rash?
• Will popping the blisters spread the rash?
• What skin care routines do you recommend to improve my condition?
• How can I prevent this in the future?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you questions such as the following:

• When did you begin noticing symptoms?
• How often do you have symptoms?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional? Do they get better over the weekend or during vacation?
• Does anything seem to make your symptoms better or worse?
• Have you started using any new soaps, lotions, cosmetics or household products?
• Does your work or a hobby involve using products that often come in contact with your skin?