What are The 7 Warning Signs of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer globally, and early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Understanding and recognizing the early signs of skin cancer can be life-saving. This blog will cover the seven most common warning signs, delve into the symptoms of skin cancer, discuss the variations among different types of skin cancer, and clarify the difference between signs and symptoms.

If you’re concerned about skin changes, visiting a skin cancer clinic Ipswich, such as Station Road Medical Centre, is essential to get checked and receive a diagnosis.

What Causes Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer primarily occurs due to DNA damage to skin cells, often caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. This damage can cause skin cells to grow uncontrollably, forming a cancerous tumor. The risk of developing skin cancer increases with:

❖  Prolonged Sun Exposure: The more time spent unprotected in the sun, the greater the risk.

❖  Fair Skin: Lighter skin tones, which have less melanin, are at higher risk.

❖  Family History: Genetics play a role; those with a family history of skin cancer are more susceptible.

❖  Age: Skin cancer can develop at any age, but the risk increases as you get older.

While anyone can develop skin cancer, understanding the early warning signs can help identify it in its early stages.

The 7 Warning Signs of Skin Cancer:

Here are the seven most common signs that may indicate skin cancer. If you notice any of these, seek immediate evaluation at a skin cancer clinic Ipswich:

1. A New Mole or Growth:

A sudden appearance of a new mole or lump on your skin could be an early sign of skin cancer, particularly melanoma. Pay attention to any new growths that seem unusual or out of place compared to other moles on your body.

2. Changes in Existing Moles:

Any change in the appearance of an existing mole, such as a change in size, shape, or color, could indicate melanoma. Be especially vigilant for moles that become asymmetrical, develop uneven borders, or show multiple colors. For example, a mole that grows larger or changes from brown to black warrants a visit to a medical specialist Ipswich.

3. Unhealing Sores:

A sore that doesn’t heal within a few weeks could be a sign of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) often manifests as a sore that won’t heal and may bleed or crust. If you have any persistent sores, especially on sun-exposed areas like the face or hands, get them checked at a medical centre Ipswich.

4. Itchiness or Tenderness:

While not all skin cancer lesions cause pain, areas that become itchy, tender, or painful over time might be in the early stages of skin cancer. Melanomas can sometimes cause discomfort, and it’s important not to dismiss these feelings.

5. Changes in Skin Texture:

Skin cancers, especially squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), can cause changes in the skin’s texture. If an area of your skin becomes scaly, thickened, or rough, and this persists, it could be an indicator of SCC.

6. Bleeding or Oozing Lesions;

If a mole or growth starts to bleed, ooze, or crust over, it’s a concerning sign. These symptoms are often associated with more advanced forms of skin cancer and should be assessed immediately by a doctor in Ipswich.

7. Irregular Borders;

A mole or lesion that has irregular, uneven, or jagged borders is often a warning sign of melanoma. Non-cancerous moles usually have smooth, even edges, while cancerous ones tend to have more chaotic shapes.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer: What to Watch For:

While the above warning signs are visual, skin cancer can also cause less obvious symptoms that affect how you feel. These symptoms may be subtle, but they can indicate that the cancer has progressed beyond the skin.

Common Skin Cancer Symptoms Include:

❖ Fatigue: As cancer progresses, it can cause fatigue or a general feeling of weakness. This is especially true for melanoma, which can spread to other parts of the body.

❖ Swollen Lymph Nodes: If skin cancer has spread (metastasized), it can cause nearby lymph nodes to become swollen or tender. This is a sign that the cancer has moved beyond the skin and may require more aggressive treatment.

❖ Vision Changes: Ocular melanoma, a rare form of melanoma that affects the eyes, can cause blurry vision, loss of vision, or spots in your field of vision.

If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. A thorough examination at a skin cancer clinic Ipswich can help determine whether these symptoms are related to skin cancer.

Do Different Types of Skin Cancer Have Different Signs?

Yes, each type of skin cancer has its own unique signs and characteristics. Understanding the differences can help you recognize the type of skin cancer you might be dealing with.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

❖ Appearance: BCC often appears as a pearly or waxy bump, usually on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, and arms. It can also look like a flat, flesh-colored scar.

❖ Behavior: BCC tends to grow slowly and is less likely to spread (metastasize). However, it can cause significant damage to surrounding tissue if not treated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

❖ Appearance: SCC may appear as a firm, red nodule or a rough, scaly patch on the skin that can crust or bleed. It is typically found on sun-exposed areas but can develop anywhere on the body.

❖ Behavior: While SCC can also grow slowly, it is more likely to invade deeper tissues and spread to other areas of the body if left untreated.

Melanoma

❖ Appearance: Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It usually starts as a mole that changes in size, shape, or color, often becoming asymmetrical with uneven borders and varying shades of brown, black, or even red and blue.

❖ Behavior: Melanoma can spread quickly to other organs, including the lungs, liver, and brain. It is essential to catch melanoma early, as it can be fatal if it spreads.

Also Read : Skin Cancer In Different Skin Types: What You Need To Know

Skin Cancer Signs vs. Symptoms: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the difference between signs and symptoms of skin cancer can help you stay proactive about your health.

Signs:

Signs are physical changes that you can see on your skin. These include moles that change shape, sores that don’t heal, and new growths that appear. These changes can be easily identified by looking at your skin or during a routine skin examination at a skin cancer clinic Ipswich.

Symptoms;

Symptoms, on the other hand, are what you feel rather than see. Symptoms of skin cancer can include:

• Itchiness or tenderness in a specific area
• Pain or discomfort around a lesion or mole
• Fatigue or general feelings of illness as the cancer progresses

Both signs and symptoms are crucial for the early detection of skin cancer. If you notice any of these, seek a professional evaluation immediately.

How to Perform a Self-Skin Check?

Performing regular self-examinations can help catch skin cancer in its early stages. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

❖ Examine All Areas: Use a mirror to check your entire body, paying special attention to your back, scalp, and other hard-to-see areas.

❖ Look for New Growths: Identify any new moles, bumps, or growths that differ from your usual skin tone.

❖ Monitor Existing Moles: Regularly monitor any moles for changes in size, color, or shape.

❖ Check Unusual Spots: Don’t forget to check areas that are often overlooked, like the soles of your feet, under your nails, and behind your ears.

If you find any suspicious spots, book an appointment at a skin cancer clinic Ipswich for further assessment.

Preventing Skin Cancer: Key Tips:

Though some risk factors, like family history, cannot be controlled, taking proactive measures can significantly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer:

❖ Wear Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even during the winter or on cloudy days.

❖ Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds expose your skin to high levels of UV radiation, which significantly increases your risk of skin cancer.

❖ Wear Protective Clothing: When outdoors, wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts to protect your skin from UV rays.

❖ Limit Sun Exposure: Try to avoid being outside during peak sun hours, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM.

Also Read : Your Guide to Skin Cancer Prevention: Tips from Ipswich Experts

Contact Station Road Medical Centre for a Skin Check

If you notice any of the warning signs or symptoms discussed in this guide, don’t delay seeking professional advice. Station Road Medical Centre provides comprehensive skin cancer screenings and treatments, ensuring early detection and care. Contact us at (07) 3816 1473 or email us at admin@srmcbooval.com.au.

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