We all get the odd mark on our body from time to time, whether it’s a dry patch of skin, an odd-looking mole or a frustrating pimple.
Although they are often harmless, they can sometimes indicate a deeper-rooted problem.
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dr. Gareth Patterson, of Irish GP Instagram fame, says that when it comes to skin changes, it can be difficult to know what should prompt you to see a GP and what’s less worrying, but there are ways to tell .
“The skin is a complex organ,” he adds.
“Deciphering normal from abnormal involves both the patient’s understanding of his own body, as well as the experience and expertise of the doctor.
“Certain changes in the skin should of course cause concern because they can indicate underlying health problems.”
Keep your eyes open for these potential issues…
1. Hives
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Hives are raised, sores that itch and can appear anywhere on the skin Credits: NHS
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They can be red, pink or skin colored Credit: NHS
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If you have a recurring rash, talk to your GPCredit: NHS
Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, itchy sores that can appear anywhere on the skin.
Aesthetic doctor dr. Joney De Souza says they are often red, pink or skin-colored and can fade and reappear in different areas.
“Hives occur when the body releases histamine in response to a trigger, causing fluid to leak from blood vessels into the skin,” he adds.
Common triggers include allergic reactions, physical factors (such as heat, cold, sunlight, or pressure on the skin), infections (including viral and bacterial), and stress.
“Most cases of the rash disappear within hours to days and can be managed with over-the-counter antihistamines,” says Dr. De Souza.
Sun Health Explained: Skin Cancer and Moles
“However, seek medical attention if your hives last longer than six weeks, if there is no known cause, or if your hives recur frequently.”
If they are accompanied by difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat or other signs of anaphylaxis, call 999 as this is a medical emergency.
2. Moles, whether old or new
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Follow the ABCDE rule when looking at your moles Credit: NHS
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A new mole or a change in an existing one may indicate skin cancer Credit: NHS
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Look out for changes in size, shape, color or texture Credit: NHS
It is important to monitor your moles.
A new mole or a change in an existing one could indicate melanoma, a type of skin cancer, says Dr. Patterson.
New data from Vitality Health Insurance reveals that its claims for skin cancer treatment in the UK are 20 per cent higher than any other cancer – with a 15 per cent increase between 2022 and 2023.
Additionally, despite new research revealing that almost a quarter (22 per cent) of people in their 30s believe skin cancer is not something they need to worry about until they are older, 29 per cent of cancer claims for under-30s refer to skin Cancer.
In some cases, a very early form of skin cancer known as Bowen’s disease can appear as a red, scaly patch on the skin
Dr Munir Somji Aesthetic doctor
dr. Patterson says, “Watch for changes in size, shape, color or texture.
“Melanomas often become asymmetrical, have irregular edges, and can darken or develop an uneven color.”
If you are concerned about moles, book an appointment with your GP as soon as possible.
The ABCDE rule
MELANOMA – a type of skin cancer – often starts as a new mole or a change in a mole you already have.
The ABCDE rule can be followed to assess the health of moles.
If your mole is one of the following, it’s worth getting checked out:
- Asymmetric – melanomas usually have two very different halves and are irregularly shaped
- Border – melanomas usually have an incised or jagged border
- Colors – Melanomas will usually be a mixture of two or more colors
- Diameter – Most melanomas are usually larger than 6 mm in diameter
- Enlargement or elevation – A mole that changes size over time is more likely to be melanoma
3. Persistent wounds or wounds that do not heal
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Basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer, can present as a small sore that does not healCredit: cancer.org
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They can start as small bumps or rough patchesCredit: cancer.org
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If you notice any changes, contact your GPCredit: cancer.org
It’s not just new or changing moles that can indicate skin cancer.
“A sore that doesn’t heal, especially one that bleeds or crusts over, can signal skin cancer, such as basal or squamous cell carcinoma — another type of skin cancer,” says Dr. Patterson.
“They can start as small lumps or rough patches and can gradually grow, ulcerate or bleed.”
Again, see your GP if you notice any changes.
4. Red itchy rash
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Discoid eczema causes itchy, swollen and cracked skin in round areasCredit: NHS
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The rash can also be dermatitis – a type of eczema caused by contact with a certain substance Credit: NHS
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Bowen’s disease, an early form of skin cancer, can appear as a red, scaly patch Credit: NHS
It’s pretty much impossible to resist scratching when you’re dealing with an itchy part of your skin. But what is the cause of this?
dr. Munir Somji, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Somji Skincare, says it could be eczema or psoriasis.
“These include discoid eczema, which causes itchy, swollen and cracked skin in circular patches,” he says.
“It can also be a sign of a bacterial infection, or something like dermatitis, allergies or a virus.”
He adds: “In some cases, a very early form of skin cancer known as Bowen’s disease can appear as a red, scaly patch on the skin, which grows slowly and can turn into a more serious type of skin cancer if left untreated.”
If you develop lumps or cysts, I would recommend seeing a skin specialist to avoid scarring
Dr Munir Somji Aesthetic doctor
To reduce your risk, limit your sun exposure, and if you’re out in the sun, wear SPF and reapply regularly.
If the rash is long-lasting and you’re not sure why it happened, book an appointment with your GP who can run tests to determine the cause.
“Avoid scratching the area and try using an unscented moisturizer and body wash in a lukewarm bath or shower to avoid making the condition worse,” says Dr. Somji.
“You can also keep something cool on the skin, like a cool compress or a damp towel to help reduce itching.”
5. Dark stripes under the nails
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A dark streak under the nails, known as longitudinal melanonychia, should be examined by a doctorCredit: melanomauk.org.uk
Also known as longitudinal melanonychia, there are several potential causes for these dark streaks under the nails.
“In some cases they are harmless, but they can also signal underlying health problems,” says Dr. De Souza.
Injury or trauma can cause these streaks, or it can be benign (non-cancerous) pigmentation, common in people with darker skin.
Dr De Souza says: “See a doctor immediately if the dark streak is new and appears without known trauma.
“You should also make an appointment if it changes size, shape, or color, spreads to the skin around the nail, or is associated with pain, swelling, or deformity of the nail.”
dr. Somji adds that this could be a sign of subungual melanoma, a type of skin cancer. A biopsy may be needed to rule this out.
6. A pimple that won’t go away
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If you have pimples that just won’t go away, make an appointment with a dermatologist or general practitioner. Credit: NHS
Faced with a single spot that just won’t go away?
dr. Somji explains that this could be a sign of infection.
“If your pimple lasts longer than six to eight weeks and doesn’t respond to any home treatment, I’d recommend seeing a dermatologist or GP to see if it could be an infection,” he says.
However, dr. Somji adds that deep pimples that don’t have a head can take several weeks to disappear.
“When a pimple first appears, try using products that contain salicylic acid or retinoids,” she adds.
“If you develop nodules or cysts, I would also recommend seeing a skin specialist to get them treated properly to avoid scarring if you treat them yourself.
“Avoid picking this, as it can lead to scarring.”
Categories: Optical Illusion
Source: HIS Education