Signs and symptoms of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer appears as a continuous inflammation of an area of the skin. It most often develops on the outer layer of the skin. Its visibility makes it much easier to detect than other forms of cancer. Types of skin cancer are identified by particular skin cells. There are three significant types. These types are: basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma. Of the three, melanoma is the most dangerous form.

Anyone can have skin cancer but the risks are enhanced in people who spend excessive time in the sun often causing sunburn, have a light complexion, have a genetic connection, or are over the age of fifty.

Symptoms vary depending on the cancer cell type but each has to do with a visible consequence of the skin. Basal cell cancer is likely to appear as a bump on the exposed areas of the face, neck, head, or shoulders. Crusting and bleeding are often associated with this bump. Squamous cell usually appears as a thickened patch of skin which is red and scaling. An occurrence of ulceration and bleeding are often associated with it. Melanomas are most often brown or black in color. These lesions may change in size, color, or shape and are most often associated with a mole. Other forms of skin cancer may appear in different color, size, and shape variations. However, all are significant to a skin sore or irritation that simply won’t heal.

Most often skin cancer is treated by removing the lesion. This is a fairly easy procedure which includes the area around the lesion to prevent recurrence. Lower risk treatment is also done in some cases and usually includes radiation and freezing of the cancer.

Though treatment is easily provided and most often skin cancer is curable, measures should be taken to lower the risk of recurrence. Taking any form of cancer with ease could pose potential danger. Reducing exposure to the sun is necessary and especially crucial between the hours of 10am and 3pm. This is the period during the day when the sun is highest, meaning its warmer.

Make every effort to avoid sunburn including using sun block every 2 hours and immediately after swimming. Should another sore become evident on your skin and have the same unhealing potential as before, consult your physician immediately. Unfortunately, these are your only defenses against skin cancer but remaining sun smart is your most significant advantage.