Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or a general practitioner. Or you may be referred immediately to a specialist in skin conditions (dermatologist).

What you can do

Before your appointment, you might want to write a list of answers to the following questions:

• When did you first begin experiencing symptoms?
• Have you been swimming or wading outdoors recently?
• Did anyone else who went swimming with you develop a rash?
• What medications and supplements do you take regularly?

What to expect from your doctor

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

• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?