Concern About My Dermatologist's Treatment Approach
Age: 21 Gender: Male Height: 178 cm Weight: 85 kg Nationality: Iraqi Hello, I'm reaching out because I’ve been battling psoriasis for a decade. During this time, I’ve received various diagnoses, but I suspect I've been misled by some doctors who offered ineffective treatments over numerous visits. Due to financial constraints, my consultations with specialists were limited. I’ve tried vitamin D supplements as well as several shampoos, but nothing has provided relief. There was a period when a doctor prescribed an antifungal along with hydrocortisone, which yielded temporary improvement. However, the thought of using creams and ointments indefinitely does not appeal to me. The most recent dermatologist I visited proposed laser treatment, which he later clarified to be UVB therapy. He instructed me to undress when he left the room, despite my assurance that my psoriasis only affects my upper body, so I only removed my shirt. For my treatment, I seated myself about one to two meters away from a wardrobe-like device that emitted tube lights for ten minutes on each side. He indicated that my psoriasis was not currently active since blood tests revealed normal white blood cell counts, meaning immunosuppressants wouldn’t be effective for me. He outlined a plan for five additional sessions of this therapy, each week, alongside a custom-made multivitamin pill. To be honest, I can’t even decipher his handwriting regarding the vitamin. My skepticism arises from the fact that my condition has actually worsened since starting this treatment. I lack substantial evidence to support my suspicions, but it’s increasingly difficult to place trust in medical professionals these days, especially given that I don’t have health insurance to assist with my expenses.
Answers (1)
8/24/2025, 9:32:03 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel uncertain when dealing with a chronic condition like psoriasis, especially after experiencing mixed results from treatments. Your concerns about the effectiveness of the recent UVB therapy, combined with financial constraints and feelings of mistrust towards healthcare providers, are very valid. Here’s how you can navigate your treatment moving forward:
Main Points:
- Evaluate Current Treatment: It's important to monitor the effectiveness of your current UVB therapy and vitamin regimen.
- Communicate Concerns: Open communication with your dermatologist is crucial.
- Consider Alternatives: Explore additional treatment options, given your experience with previous ineffective treatments.
Explanation:
Psoriasis is a complex condition that affects everyone differently. Historically, treatments can range from topical applications to systemic therapies, and while UVB light therapy has helped many individuals, it might not be effective for everyone. The goal is to find a treatment that works best for you. Your skepticism about the current treatment, especially since you feel your condition has worsened, is a reasonable stance to take.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Changes: Keep a record of your symptoms, noting any changes or reactions since starting the UVB therapy. This will help you and your dermatologist evaluate its effectiveness accurately.
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Request Clarifications: Reach out to your dermatologist or staff for clarification on the custom multivitamin, as understanding what you're taking is essential. You could even ask for a printed version of his instructions.
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Schedule a Follow-Up: If you haven’t noticed improvement after a few more sessions, consider scheduling a follow-up with your dermatologist to discuss your concerns. Be direct about your experience and the lack of progress. Openly ask about the next steps and alternative treatments if the current plan isn’t working.
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Look for Support: Since financial constraints are a concern, consider looking into local health services or patient support groups for psoriasis. They might have resources for affordable treatments or can offer emotional support.
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Research Changes: Finally, continue to educate yourself about psoriasis through trusted sources such as the National Psoriasis Foundation. This may empower you with knowledge about potential treatment options and what to ask during your appointments.
It's completely normal to feel unsure about your treatment pathway, but with careful monitoring and communication, you can take active steps toward finding a solution that works for you. If you feel you're not being heard, seeking a second opinion from another dermatologist could also provide you with renewed insights and options.
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