Most people only see general practitioners but the list of doctors that you will need to see in your life is long. Depending on your condition, you might need to visit a specialist doctor. Here are some doctors that you might encounter in your life:
Podiatrist
A podiatrist is a specialist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of foot, leg, and ankle problems. According to a podiatrist Passaic NJ based, if you are experiencing any problems with your foot or the surrounding area, you should visit a podiatrist on a regular basis to ensure that your feet are in good shape and healthy. When your family doctor is unable to treat your foot, leg, or ankle problems, he will refer you to a podiatrist who can perform surgery if necessary.
If your family doctor does not give you a referral, you should consider asking your friends and family. Moreover, you can check the list of preferred doctors from your insurer, because they are in –network.
Dermatologist
A dermatologist specializes in treating disorders and conditions that affect your nails, skin, and hair. This doctor can perform tests to check for skin cancer symptoms as well as offer reconstructive surgery to get rid of scars. You need an annual skin check if you have:
– Precursors for skin cancer
– A history of exposure to UV rays or sun
– A family history of skin cancer
If you have a skin condition that your family doctor cannot treat, you may have to see a dermatologist. You should get a recommendation from your general doctor or get referrals from your friends and family.
Plastic Surgeon
A plastic surgeon is a specialist who operates on a certain part of the face or body to reconstruct it. Plastic surgeons can perform cosmetic surgeries to enhance your appearance and reconstructive surgery to improve your bodily function or improve appearance after an injury.
If you have a birth defect that you would like to correct, you could undergo plastic surgery in Las Vegas, for example. Also you should make sure that you look for a qualified plastic surgeon to perform the procedure.
Neurologist
A neurologist is a doctor who treats disorders and conditions that affect the nervous system. Your nervous system is in charge of many activities in your body and it includes the brain, nerves, spinal cord, eyes, nose, skin, and ears. If you have problems with your speech, mobility, and ability to smell, you need to see a neurologist. You also need to see this specialist for the treatment of the following:
– Seizure disorders
– Migraine headaches
– Pain disorders
– Neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
Most people get neurologist recommendations from their doctors, but you can also look at the preferred list of doctors on your insurance. Once you have a list of neurologists from colleagues and friends, you should compare all your in-network options.
Ear, Nose, and Throat Doctor
An ENT doctor specializes in the treatment of conditions that affect the areas around and in your nose, throat, and ears. Otolaryngologist is the alternative name for an ENT doctor. If you have hearing problems, balance problems, or tinnitus, you need to visit this specialist before things get worse.
An ENT doctor can also:
– Perform surgery on your sinuses and ears
– Order hearing aids for the hearing impaired
– Treat acute conditions like ear infections
If your family doctor cannot treat your ear, nose, or throat problems, he will refer you to an ENT doctor.
If you are lucky, you will not need all these doctors in your lifetime, but you should have their contacts handy just in case you do.