Five Mistakes To Avoid When It Comes To Skin Cancer
Skin cancer can be a frightening thought, but if you catch it early it doesn't have to be a death sentence. Your skin is your largest organ, and it is also your most exposed organ, so it's vital that you care for it properly. Part of that care is knowing the following mistakes so that you can avoid them:
#1: Skipping self examinations
The best defense against skin cancer is catching it early, which you can only do if you are perform regular examinations. Plan to perform an examination once monthly. Make an appointment with yourself to do on an easy to remember day, such as the first or last of the month. Right after a shower is a good time.
#2: Not taking advantage of examination aids
Once complication of self examination is being able to do a thorough job. If you have a partner, they can help you see hard to reach spots. Otherwise, you will need to get creative with a couple of mirrors to make sure you are getting a full view of your backside. Another aid that can help is to use a camera on a "selfie" stick to take photographs of those hard to view areas.
#3: Failing to keep exam records
Examinations only work if you know what your freckles and moles are supposed to look like. During your first exam, write down the location, color, shape, and size of each mole. Take a picture as well. You can then compare all future examinations against the first one.
#4: Ignoring trouble signs
Any change in a mole can be a sign of trouble. If it changes color, shape, or size, becomes irritated, or seems to swell or itch, don't ignore it. It may be tempting to hope it goes away, but in the long run this can make a treatable problem go to long so that it becomes untreatable.
#5:Avoiding the dermatologist
Keep all of your regular dermatologist appointments, especially if you have had any problem moles in the past. Self examinations are not a replacement for seeing your dermatologist, but should be done in conjunction with standard medical care. If you notice any changes in a mole, contact your dermatologist office right away.
Prompt identification and treatment is key in ensuring a full recovery from a tumor or skin cancer. Contact a dermatologist that specializes in skin cancer if you have any questions.
Contact a medical center like Strnot Dermatology for more information and assistance.