As dermatologists, this is something that we unfortunately have to discuss on a regular basis. While there are many types and degrees of skin cancer, all with differing levels of seriousness, there are a laundry list of symptoms to look out for.
Let’s start with understanding the most common types.
Common Types Of Skin Cancer
We typically speak of skin cancer as either melanoma, or non-melanoma.
Although melanoma is known to most of us, it’s actually a rare form of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of your body, including your organs — that’s what makes it so much more dangerous than the non-melanoma types, as those are less likely to spread and can often be treated with a simple surgery.
The most-common types of non-melanoma skin cancer we see are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Signs And Symptoms Of Skin Cancer
So how do you know if you have skin cancer? The best policy is to pay attention to your skin, and have regular check-ups with your Doctor or dermatologist. Below are some signs and symptoms to look out for.
Melanoma skin cancer typically appears as a new growth on your skin, or changes in an existing mole. Things to watch out for include:
- your mole’s shape changes — the border changes or becomes irregular; it gets larger or swollen
- your mole becomes irritated — it could become sore, itchy, bleed, or crusty; it might just “feel” different than it did before
- the color of your mole changes — non-cancerous moles are usually one shade of brown or tan; your mole develops multiple and changing colors, including blue and black
- as an adult, a new mole appears that wasn’t there before
Non-melanoma skin cancers vary with their symptoms and degree of seriousness, but more often will appear as a spot or sore on your skin. Signs to watch out for include:
- growths or lumps that weren’t there before
- red patches on your skin
- any type of sore that doesn’t heal within 4 weeks
- nodules on the skin
- wart-like bumps that may become crusty or scratchy
How Can You Protect Yourself?
One of the biggest defenses you have against skin cancer is to know your skin. Unless you know what’s normal for your body and your skin, you won’t be aware if things change or new growths appear. Knowing your skin, and having regular check-ups with your dermatologist to monitor your skin is an ideal way to mitigate your skin cancer risk.
If you notice any changes in your own skin, or have any questions about your skin, the best thing to do is to call your dermatologist in Sarasota, Bradenton, or Lakewood Ranch and ask for an appointment.
