How to Perform a Skin Self-Exam for Skin Cancer

Skin damage from the sun or tanning beds can lead to skin cancer. In the US, almost one in five persons may get skin cancer. To detect any changes, it is crucial to examine your skin. You will need a long mirror and a hand-held mirror to do a skin self-exam. Furthermore, you ought to check yourself in a well-lit area.

About once a month, you should examine your skin all over your body. This includes the top and bottom of your feet, your hands, your face, your scalp, and the front and rear sides of your body. Lift your breasts if you're a lady so that you can look underneath. You'll need to inspect your genital region and the rear of your body in the mirrors.

What Does Skin Cancer Look Like

Skin tumors have various appearances. In actuality, skin cancers come in a wide variety of forms, skin cancer moles, and sizes. They may occasionally even resemble other skin problems. The face, head, neck, and arms are among the body areas that commonly receive more sun exposure and so have a higher incidence of skin cancer. However, skin malignancies can develop on any part of the body.

The following are some of the more typical ways that skin malignancies can manifest:

• A growth, patch, or lump on the skin that is brand-new, growing or altering
• A wound that remains open for several weeks and bleeds or doesn't heal
• A crimson spot that is rough or scaly and may crust or bleed
• A growth that resembles a wart
• A new mole or another skin lesion that has changed in size, shape, or color
• A mole has a peculiar appearance, unruly boundaries, or regions of difference

Further Methods to Check for Skin Cancer

From the top of your head to your toes, take note of any moles, blemishes, or birthmarks during an examination. To gauge the size of these markings, use a tiny ruler. Note any variations in the size, shape, or color of these marks, as well as any sores that do not heal. Create written or visual records of these modifications.

Consult your doctor if any previously observed moles or other skin marks change in size, color, or form, or if you develop a sore that does not heal. This is especially true of places that itch or are bleeding. For moles, keep in mind the ABCDEs:

• The letter A stands for asymmetry, which denotes that the mole differs from one side to the other; the two sides do not line up. Phone the doctor.
• B stands for a border; a mole's irregular boundaries might indicate problems. Phone the doctor.
• Color is represented by the letter C; several colors or different color tones inside one mole might be problematic. Phone the doctor.
• A huge mole (larger than the eraser of a pencil) might be problematic; the letter D stands for diameter. Make a phone call to your doctor.
• E stands for evolution or change. You must inform your doctor of any changes to the mole in any area. E might also be an acronym for elevation; if your once-flat mole starts to protrude from your skin, see a doctor right once.

Checking for Skin Cancer Symptoms

Every month after taking a bath or shower, you should examine for skin cancer symptoms. Ask a close relative or your spouse to assist you to look at any areas you might have trouble seeing, including your back, if you can. Take these actions:

• Use a hand mirror and a full-length mirror.
• Evaluate your physique in the mirror from the front and back, and then with your arms outstretched, examine both sides.
• Examine your tongue, lips, and inside cheeks to get a view of your mouth.
• Bend your elbows and carefully examine your forearms, upper arms, the spaces between your fingers, and your palms.
• Check the soles of your feet and the gaps between your toes. Check the backs of your legs and feet. Sit if it's more comfortable.
• Use both mirrors to examine the back of your neck and scalp; to have a better view, split your hair or use a blow dryer. Any areas on your scalp may always be pointed out by your barber or hairstylist.

Get Ahold of BASS Medical

BASS Medical Group can assist if you are experiencing signs of skin cancer. They have dermatology and primary care physicians on staff. No matter what you require, BASS Medical is dedicated to giving you the greatest treatment and looking after you so you may resume living a healthy life. Call us right away to make an appointment.