The Importance of Skin Checks for Suspicious Moles

Skin cancer, one of the more common types of cancer, will affect more than 20% of Americans by the time they're 70, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Like so READ MORE

The Importance of Skin Checks for Suspicious Moles

Skin cancer, one of the more common types of cancer, will affect more than 20% of Americans by the time they're 70, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Like so many types of cancer, skin cancer is easiest to treat when it's caught early. During skin exams at their Rockville, MD, office, your dermatologists at Shady Grove Dermatology can spot and treat changes in moles, helping you protect your health.

Signs and symptoms of skin cancer

Melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer, can change the appearance of moles. Call the Rockville, MD, dermatology office if you notice:

A Large Mole: Bigger moles are more likely to cause problems. Any mole larger than a pencil eraser should be examined.
Color Changes: Melanoma may cause color changes in part or all of your mole.
Unusual Borders: A blurred, irregular or rough mole border could also be caused by melanoma.
Redness: Redness, swelling or pain around the mole can be signs of trouble.
Changes in Texture or Symmetry: Both sides of the mole should be the same size. If one side has gotten bigger than the other, it's a good to pay a visit to the skin doctor. Moles that feel rough should also be checked.

If you have basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma, you may notice sores that never heal, pimple-like bumps that keep coming back, new skin growths, or flaky, red skin patches, sores that never heal.

Regular skin exams are crucial

Skin exams, both at home and at the dermatologist's office, can help you ensure that you spot skin cancer as soon as possible. At least once a month, remove all of your clothing and examine any inch of your body. Hand mirrors can help you see out-of-the-way places.

In addition to conducting home exams, schedule a skin check in the dermatology office once a year. Although it's important to do your own exams, you may overlook a concerning spot. Seeing the dermatologist every year is a simple, effective way to ensure that you're a success story should you ever develop skin cancer.

Are you concerned about a change in one of your moles? Call (240) 246-7417 to reach your dermatologists in Rockville, MD, at Shady Grove Dermatology.