Red Rash on Face and Joint Pain? Your Next Healthcare Steps in Houston, TX
Red Rash on Face and Joint Pain? Your Next Healthcare Steps in Houston, TX
If you’ve been feeling unusually tired, noticed a persistent red rash across your cheeks and nose, and experience joint pain especially in the mornings, it’s natural to feel concerned. These symptoms can be worrying when they don’t match anything familiar like a sunburn or acne. You’re searching to understand what might be going on and whether it’s something serious. The good news is you’ve taken a smart first step by looking for guidance — this post is here to help you understand what to do next.
We’ll walk you through the types of healthcare providers who can evaluate your symptoms, explain what to expect during your visits, and give you an idea of the typical costs for these services right here in Houston, TX. Knowing this can help you feel more confident about reaching out for the care you need.
Who to See for Your Symptoms in Houston, TX
For symptoms that include a red rash on your face combined with joint pain and fatigue, a few types of doctors might be a good starting point. These healthcare providers have experience diagnosing and treating skin and joint issues, and they can coordinate appropriate testing and treatment plans.
- Dermatologists: Specialists in skin conditions who can examine your rash, determine its cause, and perform tests like skin biopsies if needed.
- Rheumatologists: Experts in joint and autoimmune disorders who can evaluate your joint pain and fatigue, and order blood tests to look for inflammation or autoimmune issues.
- Internal Medicine Doctors: General specialists who focus on adult health and can assess multiple symptoms together, helping to rule out or identify complex systemic causes.
- Family Practice Doctors: General practitioners who provide broad care, can evaluate your symptoms initially, and refer you to specialists if necessary.
Starting with any of these providers can be a good approach based on your symptoms.
What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs
Here’s a breakdown of typical procedures related to your symptoms and what the self-pay costs might be in Houston. These estimates come from multiple providers in the area and are meant to help you prepare financially if you are uninsured or paying out-of-pocket. Remember, actual costs may vary based on your insurance and the provider.
Visit with a Dermatology Doctor
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Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: A thorough visit where the dermatologist will examine your facial rash and ask questions about your symptoms to help diagnose the cause.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $198.70 (typically ranges from $149.03 to $248.38)
This estimate is based on 133 dermatology providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Biopsy of related skin growth, first growth (CPT Code: 11102)
Purpose: Sometimes a small sample of skin is taken to look at under a microscope for a clearer diagnosis.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $127.68 (ranges from $95.76 to $159.60)
This estimate is based on 140 providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Pathology examination of tissue, intermediate complexity (CPT Code: 88305)
Purpose: The biopsy tissue is examined under a microscope to help identify the specific skin condition.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $116.15 (ranges from $65.30 to $167.00)
This estimate is based on 16 providers in Houston.
Visit with a Rheumatology Doctor
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Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: The rheumatologist will assess your joint pain, fatigue, and inflammation signs to evaluate possible autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $196.06 (ranges from $147.05 to $245.08)
This estimate is based on 68 rheumatology providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
Purpose: A blood test to check your red and white blood cells and platelets, which can signal infection or inflammation.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.35 (ranges from $9.10 to $15.60)
This estimate is based on 4 providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Red blood cell sedimentation rate to detect inflammation (CPT Code: 85652)
Purpose: Another blood test that helps detect inflammatory activity in the body.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $7.88 (ranges from $3.17 to $12.60)
This estimate is based on 4 providers in Houston. -
Procedure: C-reactive protein measurement (CPT Code: 86140)
Purpose: This test measures a protein that rises in the blood with infection or inflammation.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $11.74 (ranges from $6.07 to $17.40)
This estimate is based on 4 providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Blood test for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) (CPT Code: 84443)
Purpose: TSH is tested to check if your thyroid is functioning properly, as thyroid problems can mimic some of your symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $26.34 (ranges from $19.75 to $32.92)
This estimate is based on 1 provider in Houston.
Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor
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Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: To evaluate your overall health, symptoms, and order any needed initial tests or referrals.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $194.75 (ranges from $146.06 to $243.44)
This estimate is based on 492 internal medicine providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Hemoglobin A1c level test (CPT Code: 83036)
Purpose: Checks your blood sugar control, which can be important if fatigue is a concern.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $16.41 (ranges from $11.38 to $21.45)
This estimate is based on 79 providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Blood test for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) (CPT Code: 84443)
Purpose: Screens for thyroid issues affecting your symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $26.32 (ranges from $19.74 to $32.90)
This estimate is based on 35 providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
Purpose: Basic blood test to look for signs of infection or inflammation.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.30 (ranges from $9.11 to $15.49)
This estimate is based on 42 providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Pathology examination of tissue (CPT Code: 88305)
Purpose: Sometimes used if biopsy samples are taken; helps confirm diagnosis.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $54.22 (ranges from $40.67 to $67.78)
This estimate is based on 1 provider in Houston.
Visit with a Family Practice Doctor
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Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: A general check-up to discuss symptoms, help diagnose, and provide treatment or referrals.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $195.94 (ranges from $146.95 to $244.92)
This estimate is based on 511 family practice providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
Purpose: Basic blood test to assess overall health and inflammation.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.11 (ranges from $9.08 to $15.14)
This estimate is based on 55 providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Hemoglobin A1c level test (CPT Code: 83036)
Purpose: Checks for blood sugar issues contributing to fatigue.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $15.10 (ranges from $11.33 to $18.88)
This estimate is based on 90 providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Iron level test (CPT Code: 83540)
Purpose: Measures iron which can affect energy and overall health.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $11.61 (ranges from $7.56 to $15.65)
This estimate is based on 11 providers in Houston. -
Procedure: Blood test for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) (CPT Code: 84443)
Purpose: Screens thyroid function to consider causes of your symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $26.27 (ranges from $19.70 to $32.84)
This estimate is based on 50 providers in Houston.
Your Recommended Next Steps
Taking action can feel overwhelming, but you’re on the right path by seeking information. Here’s what to do next to address your red facial rash and joint pain:
- Schedule an Appointment: Contact a dermatologist, rheumatologist, internal medicine, or family practice doctor in Houston. If unsure, a family practice doctor is a good place to start and they can guide you on referrals.
- Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, how long you have had them, when joint pain occurs, any triggers you’ve noticed, and questions you want to ask.
- Discuss Costs: When you book your appointment, ask about self-pay costs and insurance coverage. The cost estimates shared here can help as a reference.
- Follow Through: Attend your appointment, share your prepared notes, and trust the healthcare professional to guide you on next steps including any needed tests or treatments.
Remember, seeking medical advice is the best way to get clear answers and appropriate care for your health concerns. You’re taking important and positive steps to take control of your health.
Need Help Navigating Your Options?
Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.