When you notice a skin rash, unusual lump, or sudden discoloration, it is in your best interest to head over to your primary care doctor. Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and your own physician knows all about your susceptibilities and pre-existing conditions – which just may have contributed to this issue on your skin.
Let’s talk about why you should see your primary care physician (PCP) for skin issues, and where you can go in Tucson to see a world-class concierge doctor who can help you stay healthy.
Reason #1: The Skin Is a Vital Organ
In fact, your skin is responsible for:
- Protecting your internal organs and structures against injury, diseases, and toxins
- Regulating your body temperature (through sweating and goosebumps)
- Producing vitamin D upon sun exposure
- Perception of pain and other sensations
- Production of oil (to lubricate and waterproof your body)
Reason #2: Skin Issues Can Indicate a Larger Medical Problem
Your doctor incorporates a skin examination as part of your routine checkup, because your skin can indicate things like excess stress and dehydration. Also, issues such as diabetes, cancer, allergies, and a wide range of autoimmune disorders can display symptoms on the skin.
For example, a person who has undiagnosed diabetes may have persistent athlete’s foot and fungal toenails. An asthmatic may have scaly, itchy eczema. Your primary care physician will administer treatment to address the underlying condition rather than just masking the symptoms temporarily.
Reason #3: Your Primary Care Physician Knows How to Treat Skin Problems
Your primary care physician is your go-to for:
- Rashes, such as from poison ivy, shingles, allergies, and contact dermatitis
- Burns and blisters
- Cuts and bruises
- Acne
- Small cysts
- Athlete’s foot and jock itch (fungal infections)
- Hair loss
- Insect bites and stings
- Skin tags
- Changes in moles, spots, and freckles
- Scars
Your doctor will assess your skin condition and give you medications as needed. The primary care physician can administer stitches, bandaging, and removal of small skin lesions.
Reason #4: Your Primary Care Doctor Can Explain How to Keep Your Skin Healthy
Your PCP will assess the cause of your skin concern and consider your lifestyle and your overall health. The doctor may then recommend one or more of the following:
- Proper daily hydration
- Limited sun exposure
- Use of sunscreen
- A diet high in protein and fiber
- Stopping smoking (ask about a controlled tobacco cessation program)
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Routine hygiene and application of moisturizers for your skin type
- Stress management
Concierge Primary Care Physician in Tucson, AZ
Dr. Robert Lending is the internal medicine physician to see for outstanding healthcare in the Tucson area. He offers personalized concierge medicine, being available to his patients 24/7 and taking the time they need for friendly, no-rush consultations – about skin issues or any other concern.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lending, call us today at (520) 795-4291 or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to being your personal healthcare partner!
