What is melanoma?

The usual melanoma symptoms are a mole changing its shape, color or size. Moles are often brown in color, flat or slightly raised, oval or round. New moles that appear later in life should be checked out by your doctor. If you notice an unusual lump, sore or blemish anywhere on your skin, it is important to keep an eye on it as this could be an indication of melanoma. So what is melanoma?
what is melanoma

Symptoms of melanoma

Other symptoms include ragged or blurred edges of a mole or birthmark, different shades of brown or black or if one half of the mole looks different to the other half. If a mole or birthmark increases in size, changes color or becomes different in any way, make an appointment to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Skin cancer symptoms: what to look out for

A sore that doesn’t heal

If you’ve noticed a new sore which doesn’t heal within a few days, this can also be an initial symptom of melanoma. Any new swelling or redness, change in the surface of the skin, bleeding or scaliness of a sore, are also symptoms that should alert you.

Your doctor is definitely the best person to get in touch in order to put your mind at ease or take samples of the mole to test. Melanomas can appear anywhere on the body such as between your toes, on your scalp, on the soles of your feet or on the genital area.

Hidden melanomas should be checked immediately as they can develop very quickly.

Melanoma pictures

Be aware of any skin changes

If you’ve noticed changes to your skin, even if it appears like a new blemish, have it investigated. Any melanoma symptoms will be picked up by your doctor, who can then start the treatment. Always be aware that melanomas can be treated either by surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or biological therapy.

Keep checking your skin for melanoma symptoms, as it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

It is also important to remember that skin cancer can be prevented by avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, wearing a high factor sunscreen, staying covered up and not overusing tanning beds.

Know bout the different types of melanoma.

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