Did you know your body has its own language for communicating? Every time it is in distress, it shows visible signs, sometimes as subtle as a tiny, unusual mark. However, this mark could be more than just a harmless mole! It might be a warning sign!
Almost everyone is aware of skin cancer. However, it is often detected during the later stages, simply because the early signs are overlooked or misunderstood.
In this blog, Dr Vedant Ghuse, a renowned dermatologist in Tilak Nagar, breaks down the symptoms you should never ignore:
The biggest warning signs when related to a new skin spot is that it doesn’t go away with time and appears to be different from others. The spot can have different appearances—pearly, clear, shiny, or it can simply be a small bump. In certain cases, the bump or spot can be pinkish or reddish in colour or can even look like a pimple that doesn’t heal. These are characteristic signs of basal cell carcinoma, the most prevalent form of skin cancer.
A persisting wound longer than three weeks that fails to heal should be of concern. This involves sores that bleed, scab, and then recur, particularly in areas of sun exposure such as the face, neck, hands, and arms. Failing sores could signal basal or squamous cell carcinoma and require examination by a physician.
Not all moles are harmful, but any noticeable change in an existing mole’s shape, size, or colour can be a red flag. You can use the following to guide your assessment:
These markings may suggest melanoma, the most critical and potentially lethal type of skin cancer.
Skin cancer is not always painless. Certain lesions can itch, be sore, or even be sensitive to the touch. If one of your moles becomes progressively more uncomfortable or starts to shift in sensation, it's crucial to have it checked. Search for the ‘best dermatology clinic near me’ and get the mole checked by an expert.
Although uncommon, melanoma may occur in areas not typically sun-exposed, such as under your nails or toenails. A brown or black streak beneath a nail and unrelated to trauma, should be examined at once. This is called subungual melanoma and may be aggressive, and is usually ignored until it metastasises.
Skin cancer can be beaten! Early intervention can make all the difference. All you need to do is be vigilant and act promptly in case of any signs. Don’t wait for the symptoms to escalate. Visit Dr. Vedant Ghuse’s skin clinic in Chembur for complete evaluation and expert guidance.