Do you find some changes in your mole on your back or you face? Be cautious! Unusual moles, lumps or blemishes, may be a sign of melanoma or another type of cancer, or a warning that it might occur. Check out to know more.
There are a few things we never forget to do every week, just like routine check-ups – air in the car or bike tires, weekly expense calculation, washing clothes and household cleaning, etc. All these activities ensure that our personal property is in good condition. But, what about our own body and health!!
Our body too needs regular check-ups to ensure its well-being. For instance, moles should be checked every month for loopholes that might indicate a problem like cancer. Shocking!! Find more.
What Is A MOLE?
These are harmless spots that develop in infancy or later in life and can be found anywhere. Moles are usually small in size, round and regular with flat borders and an even color. Moreover, they usually don’t evolve or change shape.
A little change in your moles can be a BIG indication of disaster. So, here are ten things you should be looking for while self-inspecting the moles on your body. Have a look.
Changes In Color
The first indication of a potentially malignant mole is the extreme change in its color. If you find your mole with dark brown or grey, or varying colors, i.e. black in the middle and white, red, or pink in patches or around the borders, consulting the doctor is an immediate requirement.
Blurred or Unclear Border
Normal moles have a definite border. But, melanomas or cancerous moles are somewhat different. These tend to look blurred or distorted around the external circumferences. Sometimes, they can also feel a little elevated while touching and color may run into the nearby tissues.
Pain
Any mole that causes pain or tenderness on touching should be considered threatening, especially if it exudes blood. As such, visiting your medic immediately for a skin examination is must.
Evolving Moles
A mole that has discrepancies or contradiction, such as transitions in color, height, shape, or surface texture might be unhealthy.
Size
As said above, normal moles don’t grow in size than 6 millimeters in width. But, if any mole on your body is large or regularly growing in size, take an appointment to book a medical test.
Sores That Don’t Heal
A mole that doesn’t heal, irrespective of how much time, cleaning, and medication you apply can be a potential cancer risk.
Dysplastic Moles
People with dysplastic moles - moles greater than 6 millimeters in size, dark centers, and distorted edges are certainly at a greater risk of developing melanoma or cancerous moles.
Bleeding
Any mole that is lumpy, coarse, dry or scaly, especially if it’s itchy or tender to touch requires particular attention. Any mole that bleeds or builds a crusty coating needs immediate attention.
Asymmetry
Normal moles are usually symmetrical in nature, meaning they are equally sized. However, if you find a mole that’s uneven or asymmetrical, you may want to get it checked at.
Heredity
Unfortunately, many of our health problems are passed down by our ancestors or family members through genes. In the case of moles cancer, a history of the disease can put you at higher risk.
Besides the above mentioned symptoms, the rule of ABCDE is yet another guide to the check your mole for cancer signs. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following features:
- A for Asymmetry - One half of a mole does not match the others.
- B for Border – Borders turns irregular, notched or ragged.
- C for Color - The color doesn’t remains same all over and may include hue of brown or black, or with patches of pink, red, or white, sometimes.
- D for Diameter - The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across, although malignant moles can sometimes be smaller than this.
- E for Evolving - The mole changes in size, shape, or color.
It is sometimes even hard for doctors to tell the difference between melanoma and a normal or healthy mole. Hence, it’s important to show your doctor any mole that you are doubtful of.
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