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Unfortunately, many individuals may not be aware of the signs and symptoms of skin cancer which can leave them vulnerable to developing more advanced stages of the disease.

Luckily, there are several signs of skin cancer that you can watch out for. Knowing the warning signs can help you take action early and improve your chances of an effective treatment. Let’s take a look at some of the more common warning signs of skin cancer that you may not be aware of.

1. Changes in the Appear­ance of a Mole

A mole is an expansion of skin pigment cells found either below or on the skin’s surface. While moles are usually harmless, any shape, size, color, or texture changes may indicate skin cancer.

If a mole begins to grow, change color, bleed, become raised, or become itchy or painful, it is important to get it checked out right away by a medical professional. Changes in a mole can also include:

• A halo of lighter skin around the mole.
• Loss of symmetry.
• Difference in the mole’s border from smooth to jagged or irregular.

If you notice any of these changes, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.

2. Skin Changes after a Mole Has Been Removed

You may assume that after a mole is removed that the risk is gone. Unfortunately, that’s not the case.  The cancer cells can go deep into the skin. After a mole is removed, if the skin on or around the area changes or an unusual spot forms, that can also be a sign of skin cancer that’s still there. Make sure to let your healthcare provider know so they can look further into the issue.

3. Itch­i­ness & Ooz­ing

Itchiness and oozing are common signs of skin cancer. If you notice that a mole or area of skin is constantly itchy or the area is oozing a clear liquid or blood, these symptoms should be evaluated by a medical professional to rule out skin cancer or other potential underlying causes. Book an appointment with your doctor to get a proper diagnosis.

4. Scaly Patch­es

Scaly patches are another sign of skin cancer that is often overlooked. You may also see scaly patches that are covered with small lesions. The lesions can range in size but typically cover more than 10 percent of the affected area. They can be pink, red, or brown and may also itch or hurt.

Scaly patches may also occur on the scalp or underarm area. If you notice this sign of skin cancer, you should immediately seek medical attention.

5. Vision Prob­lems

While vision problems are not a direct symptom of skin cancer, they can be related to skin cancer. Sometimes, skin cancer can spread to the eyes and cause vision changes. If you experience any changes in vision, such as blurred vision, double vision, or blind spots, it is important to get it checked out by a doctor. While these changes are not always caused by skin cancer, it is important to rule out skin cancer and discover what the exact cause is.

6. Changes in Your Fin­ger­nails or Toe­nails

Changes in your fingernails or toenails can also indicate skin cancer. Some signs to look out for include discoloration, ridges, changes in texture, and changes in the shape of the nail. This can be caused by the growth of non-cancerous or cancerous cells in the nail bed. You’ll want to schedule an appointment with your doctor if you notice any distinct changes to your nails.

7. A Sore or Spot That Won’t Go Away

Skin cancer can also produce a sore that won’t heal or a spot that won’t go away. It may look similar to a pimple. But unlike a pimple, this sore will not go away.

The affected area may begin to grow quickly, leaving painful lumps or raised red spots. The area may also feel irritated and hot to the touch. If left untreated, the sore or spot can become infected, leading to skin cancer growth.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have any of these signs or symptoms and would like to have your skin checked for cancer, schedule a consultation with Dr. David A. Baird at Baird MD. To book an appointment, please call our Farmington, MI office at (248) 213-8575 or request an appointment on our website.