Many people likely overlook skin cancer. It can be challenging to spot skin cancer due to unawareness. However, you should be aware of skin cancer symptoms and spot them before the disease spreads more.
Skin cancer can likely happen when the growth of your skin cells changes. The primary reason behind skin cancer can be exposure to ultraviolet light. There are several symptoms of skin cancer, each of which can help you identify the disease at its level.
You should limit yourself from exposure to ultraviolet radiation as it can significantly decrease the chances of skin cancer. You can also contact Cypress skin cancer doctors to learn more about skin cancer prevention.
Common symptoms of skin cancer you must be aware of:
If you suspect any abnormal changes to your skin, you should pay utmost attention to them as they can indicate skin cancer. It would help if you kept an eye out for new or changing spots on your skin that last two weeks or longer. If you observe any such sign, you should immediately contact a doctor.
Unfortunately, skin cancer has no definite symptoms in its initial stages. However, symptoms can appear at any time. Below are some of the most common signs you should keep an eye out for:
- Itchy spots
- Painful skin patches
- Sudden or new spot or mole on the skin
- Visible changes to existing spots or patches on the skin
- Skin- or red-colored glowing bump on the surface of the skin
- A sore or wound which is not healing or coming back over time
What steps to take after detecting skin cancer symptoms?
Once you have encountered the signs mentioned above, it will be ideal for you to consult a doctor or dermatologist. During the initial consultation with the doctor, ask them to examine your skin thoroughly. Do not forget to ask the doctor to examine your scalp, soles of your feet, palms of your hands, ears, and patches around your genitals.
Once consulted with the dermatologist, you will likely be advised of a specific line of treatment. For instance, the dermatologist might like to conduct tests to detect cancer. If the doctor suspects you have skin cancer, they will perform a biopsy. You should ask the doctor how you should be prepared for the biopsy to ensure the results are not tampered with.
A small tissue sample will be surgically removed from your body during the biopsy. The sample will be sent to a laboratory for further examination by a pathologist under a microscope. The pathologist will confirm if you have skin cancer, following which the dermatologist will advise specific treatment actions. It will be best for you not to panic and follow up with the doctor consistently in case of skin cancer.