Preparing for an appointment

You may start by seeing your primary care physician. He or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in skin conditions (dermatologist).

Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

Before your appointment, make a list of:

• Symptoms you've been having and for how long
• Key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes
• All medications, vitamins and supplements you take, including the doses
• Questions to ask your doctor

For neurodermatitis, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's the most likely cause of my itching?
• Are there other possible causes?
• Do I need any tests?
• Will the itching ever stop?
• What treatments are available, and which do you recommend?
• What side effects can I expect from treatment?
• What are alternatives to the primary approach you're suggesting?
• How long will it take for my skin to return to normal?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?

What to expect from your doctor

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

• Do your symptoms come and go, or are they fairly constant?
• What products do you use on your skin, including soaps, lotions and cosmetics?
• What steps have you taken to manage the itchiness?
• Have any of these measures helped?
• Have you been stressed or anxious lately?
• How much do your symptoms affect your quality of life, including your ability to sleep?