Questions to ask your doctor about eczema

Many eczema sufferers struggle to communicate with their healthcare providers.

Here are some ways you can talk to your doctor or dermatologist more easily and get results that may improve your skin condition. If you’re wondering what questions to ask a doctor your doctor about eczema or what to say, there are also some conversation starters for you.

Express How eczema affects your life

Everyone’s experience with eczema is unique. Let your doctor know how the skin disease affects you physically and emotionally. Describe how avoiding eczema triggers and having eczema flare-ups disrupt your work or social life, and how they affect your mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression are linked to eczema inflammation, so your doctor needs to understand how you experience these symptoms.

By communicating honestly with your doctor, you may get the help you need to improve your quality of life.

Start the conversation

Because your doctor may not broach the topic of daily disruptions due to eczema, here are some examples of what you might say to prompt the discussion:

• “I’d like to discuss how I can get help with the emotional stress I’ve been feeling.”

• “I’m uncomfortable seeing friends because of my eczema. How can I work on that?”

• “I’d like to get more exercise but sweat irritates my eczema. What’s your advice?”

• “I’m worried that intimacy has become uncomfortable. What can I do about that?”

Don’t avoid topics that may seem embarrassing. Make notes about any physical or emotional issues that disrupt your life. Then, you can have a conversation with your doctor at your next visit.

Discuss your feelings about eczema treatment

Are you happy with your eczema treatment? Talking about treatment satisfaction is one of the most important ways you and your doctor can make sure you have an effective treatment plan that you’ll stick with. Carefully explain what is and isn’t working in your current treatment.

You may be experiencing unpleasant side effects or persistent itchy skin.

Let your doctor know if you’re not getting the results you want. Is your skin clearing? Are you frustrated with the condition of your skin? Here are some conversation starters you can try with your doctor:

• “I’m finding my skin care regimen is too hard to keep up with. What are my options?”

• “I need more help controlling itching. Are there adjustments to my treatment plan we could make?”

• “Are there over-the-counter lotions or cleansers I could try?”

• “What should my realistic expectations be?”

Ask specific questions that will inform your doctor of your exact concerns.

Ask about your eczema treatment options

Talk with your doctor about ongoing medical advances and new eczema treatments. Ask about new medications and what their benefits and drawbacks might be.

Some biologic drugs have been approved for the treatment of eczema. These medications may provide relief from eczema symptoms when other topical treatments like corticosteroids, moisturisers, ointments, and creams haven’t worked effectively. Biologics are typically injectable drugs that work by targeting overactive cells in the immune system.

Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors are a class of drugs that block the pathways of overactive signals in the immune system associated with inflammation. These drugs were originally approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. JAK inhibitors are now available for eczema.

Talk to your doctor about the benefits and drawbacks of treatment options. Ask how quickly results can be achieved with these medications and if the effects are long-lasting. Because of the potential for both minor and major side effects, talk about what you should expect if you start a new treatment. You can also discuss the possibility of participating in clinical trials — research studies that examine new drugs.

Start the conversation

Here are some ways you can initiate a conversation about treatment options:

• “Are topical treatments working well enough for my type of eczema, or should we explore some other options?”

• “I’d like to know your opinion on biologics and JAK inhibitors for treating eczema.”

• “I would be interested in exploring newer treatment options for my eczema.”

• “Would I be a good candidate for treatment with a biologic or a JAK inhibitor?”

• “Do you think there are any new treatments or prescriptions I should try?”

More ideas for talking to your doctor

Planning your conversation with your dermatology provider will help you communicate more effectively and get more out of your appointments. You’ll also be better prepared to raise questions and concerns. Here are some additional tips for having a meaningful and productive conversation with your doctor:

• Write down your concerns in a notebook before your appointment and take notes when you talk with your doctor.

• Take photos of any flare ups or areas of concern.

• Be open and honest with your doctor.

• Don’t hesitate to ask questions at any point during an appointment and always let your doctor know if you have concerns about treatment options.

• Bring a friend or family member with you to take notes and ask questions.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is general in nature and does not constitute professional medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for advice tailored to your individual needs.