Why It's Always Best To Get Suspicious Moles Checked
Posted on: 1 October 2021
Many people have moles that worry them, whether or not they turn out to be anything dangerous. If you have a mole that you haven't noticed before, one that is looking a bit odd, or one that is a bit painful, you should see a dermatologist right away. Even if it turns out to be nothing, it's better than not having it checked out. Here's why it's so important to consult medical dermatology.
Telltale Signs Aren't Universal
Many people are aware of the fact that dangerous, potentially cancerous moles tend to be asymmetrical and have strange discolorations. While this is often the case, it's not necessarily true of every single cancerous or pre-cancerous mole. The only way to know for sure is to test a tissue sample; even trained dermatologists can't make diagnoses based purely on a visual inspection. So if you think your mole doesn't look like anything to worry about, it could still be a potential issue.
Melanoma's Volatile Nature
Melanoma, or skin cancer, is extremely dangerous. It can develop quietly and spread all over the body before it's diagnosed, which makes it a huge threat to a person's overall health. However, it's arguably also one of the easiest forms of cancer to get rid of, if the timing is right.
When melanoma develops on the surface in the form of a mole or other strange skin patch, it's often the origin point of the disease. If this disease is cut out and eliminated before it can spread through the body, in many cases, cancer can be completely cured and won't return. However, if too much time passes and the cancer cells spread and metastasize through the body, more treatment may be required, like radiation or chemotherapy.
Wasted Time, Saved Life
When it comes down to it, the worst thing that can happen from visiting a dermatologist for a suspicious mole is being told that it's nothing. But what a relief to hear that. In addition, if you don't like the mole in the first place, the dermatologist will likely offer to remove the entire thing while they're taking a tissue sample. This can rid you of a cosmetic imperfection whether or not it turns out to be a risk to your health, so you have nothing to lose except an unwanted beauty mark and a possible danger to your health.
Suspicious moles and other skin issues should never be ignored. Contact a dermatologist if you have one; you'll feel better seeing someone and knowing it's taken care of, even if it turns out to be benign, than letting it be and worrying over it.
Share