I went to see Dr. Bell due to my finger nails splitting down the center and causing quite a bit of discomfort. While I was there I decided to mention two small itchy bumps on the left side of my face that I thought to be my eczema acting up. Dr. Bell made no recommendations for my fingernails but from the doorway, because he never came close to me, he immediately diagnosed me with Rosacea and prescribed Metrogel 1% and Finacea. Up until this point I had NEVER experienced flushing, red bumps or anything that resembled Rosacea symptoms and I had always enjoyed clear facial skin. After one application of Metrogel which I was told to apply to my entire face I had a severe reaction. My face was burning, itching and completely broken out. I contacted Dr. Bell's office and was advised over the phone to continue treatment as instructed and my skin should improve. They didn't even want to see me. The symptoms worsened and I was very discouraged by Dr. Bell's office's lack of concern and compassion. Within one week of my Rosacea diagnosis and continuous discomfort and Iots of tears I went looking for another dermatologist who immediately took me off of all of the medication Dr. Bell prescribed and started me on steroids to help clear up my irritated red raw face. The dermatologist felt that perhaps my Rosacea was actually brought on by the use of Metrogel & Finacea which may have been too harsh for my sensitive and eczema prone skin. He wasn't convinced that I even had Rosacea when I went to see Dr. Bell but if I did in fact have Rosacea, it was so mild and I should never been treated so agressively with such harsh chemicals. These medications took me from extremely mild to stage 2 Rosacea and now I suffer every day. I am beyond devastated. My once beautiful skin was destroyed because of one simple visit to Dr. Bell for my fingernails. I cannot tell you how sad I am. Did I mention that there is absolutely ZERO bedside manner and it is reflected throughout the office as the staff does not seem to be enjoying their job? I remember my one and only visit to Dr. Bell's office. As I sat in the waiting room they called the next patient. An elderly woman struggled to stand up and grab her belongings. The nurse just stood at the door and watched her struggle. I got up and helped the woman get her belongings and walk her to the door. I should have known right then and there I had made a mistake.
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