If you have moderate to severe psoriasis, your physician may refer you to specialists. Here are some tips for finding the right ones.
Having moderate to severe psoriasis puts you at risk of developing other conditions. Your physician may not be able to treat all your conditions, but they can refer you to specialists.
Read on to learn about the different specialists you could be referred to. You may want to consider consulting one or more to get the best possible treatment.
Moderate to severe psoriasis often affects the nails, skin, and scalp. So a dermatologist is probably the first specialist your doctor will refer you to. Dermatologists specialize in treating the skin, nails, hair, and mucous membranes.
Not all dermatologists offer the same services and treatments. It’s best to do some research before you make an appointment. Look for a board certified dermatologist who has experience treating psoriasis. Review their website or call their office to find out if they treat psoriasis or if they focus more on cosmetic procedures.
The National Psoriasis Foundation reports that up to 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis. This condition can cause joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness. These symptoms require specialized treatment from a rheumatologist.
Rheumatologists diagnose and treat arthritis and other rheumatic diseases that affect the joints, bones, and muscles. They can help ease your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
An internist is a physician specializing in internal medicine. Moderate to severe psoriasis affects more than just your skin. Symptoms can affect other parts of the body. Having psoriasis increases your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Your doctor may refer you to an internist for this reason.
Internists often act as primary care physicians. However, internists receive training that makes them more specialized than a PCP. They often have subspecialties, which are areas of expertise such as cardiology or gastroenterology.
Internists diagnose and manage complex health issues that affect various parts of the body. They also assist in disease prevention and can offer advice on overall wellness. They can advise you on ways to lower your risk of other diseases.
Seeing an internist as part of your psoriasis treatment can help you get the care you need for other conditions related to your psoriasis.
Psoriasis can affect your mental health as well as your physical health. Self-esteem issues, anxiety, and stress are common for those living with psoriasis.
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Your doctor will likely refer you to a mental health professional if psoriasis is causing:
- stress
- anxiety
- depression
- difficulty coping with day-to-day life
Your doctor may refer you to a psychologist, psychiatrist, or social worker, depending on your symptoms and concerns. Their training enables each of these types of specialists to treat different aspects of your mental health.
For instance, a psychiatrist can:
- diagnose mental health disorders, such as depression
and anxiety - talk you through emotional issues
- prescribe medications to treat depression and anxiety
Psychologists can also talk you through your feelings and teach you how to cope with your problems. However, they cannot prescribe medication.
Social workers can help you cope with everyday stressors. They can also put you in touch with psychosocial services.
Moderate to severe psoriasis increases your risk of developing other conditions, such as psoriatic arthritis or depression. Your physician may refer you to certain specialists, such as a dermatologist, a rheumatologist, or a mental health professional.
Seeing multiple specialists can help ensure that you’re getting the right treatment for your psoriasis. Consulting with your physician and other care team members, including specialists, is important to ensure you’re continuously receiving proper treatment.