Dermatologists in southwest Virginia

At LewisGale Regional Health System, our dermatologists understand how important your skin is to your comfort and confidence. You can trust our experienced dermatologists to answer all of your questions about skin conditions and offer compassionate care for skin disorders.

To learn more about dermatology services at LewisGale Regional Health System call our Consult-A-Nurse® team at (877) 242-2362.

What is dermatology?

Dermatology is a medical specialty that deals with disorders of the skin, hair and nails. Most people have concerns relating to their skin at some time in their lives—from teenage acne to age spots. A dermatologist is specially trained to diagnose and treat many skin disorders including skin cancer, eczema, psoriasis and nail infections.

Sometimes, skin reactions may be a result of allergies. Learn more about allergy and immunology services at LewisGale Regional Health System.

Causes of skin conditions

Measured in terms of weight and surface area, your skin is the largest organ in your body. It forms a protective barrier between your internal organs and the external world and performs several important functions, including:

  • Protecting you from bacteria and viruses that can cause infections
  • Helping you sense whether conditions outside your body are hot, cold, wet or dry
  • Regulating your body temperature

If your skin becomes irritated, inflamed or clogged, you may experience redness, swelling, burning or itching. Your genetics and allergies, as well as certain diseases and immune system disorders, may cause dermatitis, hives or other skin disorders.

Skin cancer

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. The most common types of skin cancer include basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer and melanoma. LewisGale Regional Health System provides extensive cancer care services, so you and your skin are in good hands.

Although anyone can develop skin cancer, you may be at higher risk if you:

  • Have had excessive sun or radiation exposure or have been sunburned
  • Have light-colored skin, hair and eyes
  • Have a family history of skin cancer
  • Are 50 years old or older

Since skin cancer is best treated when caught early, it is vital to check your skin often and to see a doctor when you notice any suspicious changes in your skin, including:

  • Spots on the skin that change in size, shape or color or that bleed
  • An unusual sore, lump, spot, blemish or change in the way an area of the skin looks or feels