Could You Have Skin Cancer? Look for These Signs
While a doctor’s diagnosis is essential if you think you have skin cancer, it’s important to know the signs so you know when to make that doctor’s appointment. Self-examination alerts you to the need for a medical examination.
One good place to start is to dispel some myths about skin cancer. The first myth is that only fair-skinned people get skin cancer. This is not so – people of all skin colors can get skin cancer. Another myth is that skin cancer only forms on sun-exposed areas of the skin. While these areas are considered the most vulnerable to certain types of cancer, they are far from the only places you can get skin cancer. So check everywhere when you do your self-examination. Another word of wisdom: have someone else check the skin on your back.
There are two basic types of skin cancer: carcinoma and melanoma. We’ll take a look at both.
If you think you could have skin cancer, look for these signs.
Carcinoma
Usually on sun-exposed areas of your body, carcinoma is the most treatable kind of skin cancer. Here are some signs to look for.
1. A pearly or waxy bump that may seem like a pimple or mole at first may appear on your face, neck, top of the shoulders, or ears.
2. A patch that looks like brown or skin-colored scar tissue may show up on areas like your chest or back.
3. Check for any hard bumps (or somewhat hard bumps) that are not pimples. These can form around the lips, on the hands, face, ears, neck, and elsewhere.
4. Scar tissue that forms new growth is a significant warning sign of skin cancer.
Melanoma
Melanoma is considered a bit more serious than carcinoma. Here are the signs of melanoma.
1. Look for largish brown spots with speckles inside them. These speckles may look like freckles.
2. A mole that changes in size, texture, color, or in any other way should be checked.
3. An irregularly-shaped or asymmetrical area that has blue spots or unclear borders is a sign of melanoma.
4. Mucous membranes that don’t see sunlight can also show signs of melanoma, including the genitals or inside your mouth. Look for dark lesions in these areas.
5. A shiny-looking bump that looks pink, like a scar, can be a sign, especially if it’s hard.
Keep an eye out for any of these signs, and don’t hesitate to contact your doctor if you suspect skin cancer.