Dermatology is the medical specialty dedicated to the detection, care, and treatment of skin, hair, and nail diseases. Dermatology Singapore data showed that skin disease is the 27th leading cause of death in the country. Newborns, toddlers, teens, adults, and the elderly are all susceptible to developing a skin disorder at some point in their lives.
The skin is the largest and most visible organ of the body. It has nerve endings, pores, follicles, sweat glands and blood vessels. It’s a key element of the immune system, as it blocks disease-causing pathogens from invading the body. Dermatology’s importance in medical practice stems from the fact that skin health is a strong barometer of internal wellness. Sun exposure, hormone conditions, genes and concomitant internal disorders are major indicators of how your skin, hair and nails will age. Your health in general depends on how well you take care of your skin.
The term dermatology comes from the Greek word “derma,” which means skin. Dermatology is a medical specialty that focuses on skin, hair, nails and mucous membrane conditions and disorders. It is traditionally regarded as a branch of internal medicine. Dermatology has both medical and surgical components.
Dermatology is a broad field with numerous subspecialties. Dermatology Singapore commonly covers the following:
Although general practitioners and internal medicine doctors are capable of diagnosing and treating certain skin conditions, a medical dermatologist Singapore has more in-depth knowledge of the field and more advanced treatment options. When patients have skin problems, most primary care doctors refer them to dermatologists.
A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating problems of the skin, hair and nails. Before being board certified, a dermatologist Singapore has completed at least eight to ten years of postgraduate study. This entails five years of medical school, a year of housemanship and at least three years in the dermatology residency program.
A dermatologist can either be a Medical Doctor (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). Some pursue additional fellowship training in advanced dermatology or a subspecialty. Dermatologists usually work in three different areas: medicine, surgery and cosmetics.
Dermatologists are trained to diagnose and treat skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis and eczema. They can also spot skin symptoms that may indicate underlying health problems. For instance, a common symptom of renal disease is dry, itchy skin.
Numerous practitioners in dermatology and surgical clinics perform minor surgical procedures like mole and wart removal. Other dermatologists specialise in more complex operations, such as skin cancer and benign cyst excision. Furthermore, a dermatologist may cure and correct cosmetic skin problems. Treatments for thinning hair and wrinkles, for example, fall under this category. Dermatologists often have additional training in providing cosmetic treatments, including laser hair removal and Botox.
Dermatology specialists in Singapore have an in-depth understanding of how the skin interacts with the rest of the body. For instance, what you think is a simple rash could be scabies, measles or an allergic reaction. Each of these requires distinct treatment plans.
When you are being treated by a dermatologist for a skin condition, your physician may keep an eye out for related health issues. For example, if you’re being treated for psoriasis, you’re most likely to develop high blood pressure and diabetes. As such, your dermatologist will look for signs of these conditions.
While there are a lot of common and treatable skin conditions, there are also some that can turn severe and, at times, fatal. Dermatologists have years of education and training under their belts, enabling them to accurately diagnose and treat more than 3,000 conditions affecting the skin, hair and nails, as well as cosmetic problems. If you have any of the following skin conditions, see a dermatologist:
There are a few things you should consider before meeting with a dermatologist. You may be asked to undress during your check-up. But you will be provided with a paper robe or a dressing gown. If you have manicured nails, remove the polish first. If your skin problem is concentrated on your face, go to the dermatology clinic without any makeup on. Your dermatologist must be able to easily see and access the affected area.
During the initial consultation, your dermatologist will review your medical and health history. Your doctor will ask you about any specific symptoms you’re experiencing. You will be examined from head to toe, checking for anything out of the ordinary.
Specific tests, such as genetic testing, allergy testing, biopsies and blood work, may be ordered by your dermatologist. After making a diagnosis, your doctor will suggest a treatment plan, which could include prescription drugs, a consultation with a different specialist or surgery.
The skin is a complex, sensitive organ that is tied to a variety of internal disorders. Even issues like acne breakouts or simple rashes are best treated by a certified Singapore dermatologist with years of expertise, training and skills. It’s important to acknowledge that beautiful skin is healthy skin. A dermatologist is the perfect candidate to educate you on the many treatments and procedures available to maintain healthy, glowing skin.
Preventive care is a big part of dermatology. Routine self-exams and periodic screenings with your dermatologist can save your life. Consulting with a dermatologist prevents possible health threats from escalating into serious health problems.
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