Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It’s a chronic skin condition that affects people of all ages and causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. These symptoms can come and go. You might have a flare-up if you touch something you are allergic to or that irritates your skin in any way.
A Complicated Diagnosis
One of the symptoms of atopic dermatitis is a rash that looks bright red on white skin and gray or purple on dark skin. It can be difficult to notice the rash on darker skin tones, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.
Barriers to Care
In addition to a possible delayed diagnosis, Hispanic people in the United States face other barriers to care:
- Many of them either don’t have health insurance or don’t have enough coverage.
- Language and cultural barriers are difficult to overcome. Nearly 50% of Hispanic people say communication problems, whether because of language or cultural differences, block their access to health care.
- Economic and social factors also contribute to inequalities in health care access.
Whatever the reason, it can be difficult to manage a chronic disease such as atopic dermatitis because of a lack of access.
Who Can Diagnose Me?
A primary care doctor can diagnose atopic dermatitis after examining your skin and asking you about your symptoms. It's a good idea to write down your symptoms beforehand so you don’t forget anything. Your provider is also likely to review your medical history. You might need a blood test to see if you have allergies.
Allergy and asthma specialists and dermatologists can also diagnose atopic dermatitis and recommend treatments that are right for you.
Make Sure Your Doctor Is Culturally Competent
Doctors who are culturally competent understand that:
- All their patients have cultural differences, and each of them deserves respect.
- It would be ideal for them to learn how to speak Spanish to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking patients.
- They should offer their patients the services of a medical interpreter.
- It’s important to tailor care to fit their patients’ needs, which means taking each patient’s culture into account.
Ask for a Medical Interpreter
It’s frustrating when you and your doctor can’t communicate well with each other. There can be serious consequences to poor communication. For example, you might get the wrong diagnosis if you aren’t able to accurately communicate your symptoms to your doctor.
If you don’t speak English or feel more comfortable speaking in Spanish, don’t feel shy about asking for a medical interpreter. An interpreter can help you understand what your doctor is saying and help your doctor understand what your symptoms are. The interpreter can also help you ask any questions you might have and make sure you understand all the answers. Ideally, you should call the doctor’s office ahead of time to let them know you’d like a medical interpreter on the day of your appointment.
Take a Loved One to Your Doctor’s Appointment
Taking a relative or friend along to your doctor’s appointment is a good idea, even if you’ve already asked for an interpreter. This way, the interpreter can focus on translating what your doctor is saying, while your companion can focus on giving you emotional support. Your companion can also take notes and remind you about any questions you might have forgotten to ask.
Ask for a Second Opinion
If you’re not satisfied with the care you receive from your doctor or if you are not convinced you’re receiving the best possible treatment, ask for a second opinion. A second opinion can let you confirm your diagnosis is the right one and help put you at ease about the treatment plan your doctor has recommended.
Be Honest With Your Doctor
If you’re curious about natural or home remedies, talk to your doctor before trying anything. Only your doctor can tell you if something a friend has recommended or something you read about online is safe or not. Don’t be embarrassed about asking. It’s always better to be safe.
Show Sources
Photo Credit: Jose Luis Pelaez Inc/Getty Images
SOURCES:
AARP: “How to Talk So Your Doctor Will Listen.”
American Hospital Association: “Becoming a Culturally Competent Health Care Organization.”
National Institute of Arthritis, Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS): “Atopic Dermatitis.”
League of United Latin American Citizens: “Latino Health Disparities.”
Mayo Clinic: “Atopic dermatitis (eczema).”
National Institute of Aging: “How to Prepare for a Doctor’s Appointment.”
Pew Research Center: “Hispanic Americans’ experiences with health care.”
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health: “Hispanic/Latino Health.”
