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Talking to Your Doctor About Psoriasis

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Talking to Your Doctor About Psoriasis

You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with psoriasis. By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Tips for Getting Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask.
  • Write down your questions so do you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for help if you need it.
  • Do not be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.
  • Think about keeping a diary of your symptoms, triggers, and a list of your medicines. Share this with your doctor at every visit.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About Your Risk of Getting Psoriasis

  • Am I at risk for psoriasis based on my health and family history?
  • Do any of the medicines I take put me at risk?
  • Does psoriasis put me at risk for other health problems?

About Treatment Options

  • What is the best treatment for me?
  • What medicines can help me?
  • What are the benefits and side effects?
  • Will these medicines cause problems with other medicines, over the counter products, or supplements that I am already taking?
  • Are there any alternative or complementary therapies that will help me?

About Lifestyle Changes

  • Should I limit or increase my exposure to sunlight based on the type of psoriasis I have?
  • Do certain foods affect psoriasis?
  • How can I lower the risk of flare ups?

About Your Outlook

  • Will my psoriasis flare up? If so, how often?
  • Has there been any new research into the type of psoriasis I have?

References

  • Psoriasis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/psoriasis. Accessed March 25, 2022.
  • Psoriasis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin diseases. Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/psoriasis. Accessed March 25, 2022.
  • Psoriasis resource center. American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis. Accessed March 25, 2022.

Contributors

  • Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
Last Updated:
2021-11-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.