This is part 1 of 2 in a mini-series about melanoma. The next article will go into detail about ways to prevent it from ever developing in the first place. Melanoma is one of the most serious forms of cancer in the world, and it should be treated as such.
4 Signs That You May Be Developing Melanoma
Cancer is understandably one of the biggest problems in modern health. Even with the millions of dollars being contributed into the research behind causes and treatments, it still holds a spot as one of the highest causes of death across the world. One of the biggest issues with trying to “figure it out” is that it can originate in so many different parts of your body, and end up spreading to the point that it becomes almost impossible to treat.
Of those different parts of your body, the skin is currently a big focus for quite a large number of researchers. When it comes to skin cancer, 75% of cases have to do with melanoma – the most severe form of it.
Did you know that scientists are predicting about 75,000 cases of melanoma development in Americans next year? Of those 75,000 they’re predicting about 10,000 deaths to follow. It’s a scary thought. The rates of melanoma diagnoses have been steadily increasing over the past few years, and it doesn’t look like that rate is going to slow down any time soon.
What are some signs that you may be developing melanoma? Check for any of these:
1. Sores That Won’t Go Away
This is one of the most often overlooked signs of melanoma. People develop sores all the time as a result of their skin coming into contact with environmental damage. Some people don’t even bother treating them if they aren’t causing enough irritation or soreness.
If you notice sores on your body, treat them. If your treatment attempts fail, then it may be a sign that you’re developing melanoma. If you notice that your skin doesn’t respond to treatment, then see a doctor ASAP. Although it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s dangerous – you’re a lot better off making sure.
*One of the biggest reasons why melanoma is so hard to treat is that people often overlook symptoms before it’s too late. Treating it is considerably easier in earlier stages of development.
2. Peculiar Moles
Analyze your moles! Again, most moles (just like sores) are normal and don’t really pose any risk to your overall health. But there are signs that are worth looking for – all of which indicate enough irregularity that you should consult a doctor if they exist.
If your moles are enlarged or considerably elevated off of your skin, then it’s worth looking into them. At the same time, if your moles aren’t symmetrical (the two halves aren’t similar at all), or if they have an odd coloring, have them checked out. Finally, if your moles have irregular borders compared to the rest of them, it may be a sign that you’re developing melanoma.
3. Aches & Bruises
Melanoma has a tendency to make bruises more pronounced than they otherwise would be. If your bruises are lingering for longer than usual, it may not just be a sign of melanoma. Other conditions like anemia also have bruising on the list of symptoms. Outside of bruises, patients with melanoma frequently complain of aches in their skin.
4. Discoloring Around the Fingernails & Toes
Check underneath your fingernails and toes for any black or brown marks. Melanoma often results in a type of dark pigmentation at the ends of the fingers and toes that can often be dismissed as dirt or dried blood.
Looking at these symptoms, you can probably imagine why so many cases of melanoma are overlooked. All of them appear to be completely normal. So, instead of dismissing your symptoms as something insignificant, see a doctor to make sure you aren’t developing one of the deadliest forms of cancer in the world.
Sources:
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/skincancer-melanoma/detailedguide/melanoma-skin-cancer-risk-factors
