Discover the silent killers: A doctor exposes cancer signs everyone is missing!
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In the tapestry of health concerns that we navigate as we age, cancer remains one of the most formidable foes. It's a word that can send shivers down the spine, and for good reason.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, and more than two people die each hour in the United States from this disease.
But while many of us are vigilant about checking our skin for the telltale signs of cancer, there are other, less obvious indicators that we might be missing—signs that can appear on our lips and nails. Let's delve into the silent warnings of skin cancer that could be hiding in plain sight.
Dr. Emily Alfonsi, a skin cancer specialist at Shade Skin, has shed light on some of the less commonly known symptoms of skin cancer.
“Skin cancer doesn’t always present in obvious ways,” she explained to Mirror Online. “Recognizing subtle changes in your skin, nails, or lips can be crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. It’s vital to be proactive in seeking medical advice if something doesn’t seem right.”
Chapped lips are a common complaint, especially during the harsh winter months.
However, if you find that your lips remain sore and cracked despite using moisturizing treatments, it could be a red flag. Persistent chapped lips might indicate squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer often caused by cumulative sun damage.
Dr. Alfonsi warns, “If your lips do not improve with treatment or you notice additional symptoms such as persistent sores, lumps, or changes in color, it’s important to seek medical attention.”
When checking for signs of skin cancer, don't forget to examine your nails.
A dark streak, spot, or irregular pigmentation under the nail could be a symptom of subungual melanoma—a rare but serious type of skin cancer.
This form of cancer is not linked to sun exposure and is most likely to develop in your big toe, thumb, or index finger. The Cleveland Clinic advises paying close attention to any unusual changes in your nails.
Early detection is key when it comes to skin cancer. Dr. Alfonsi emphasizes that skin cancer is “highly treatable” if found early. This sentiment is echoed by Dr. Muneeb Shah, who experienced a skin cancer scare himself.
He noticed a “pink, itchy bump that could be mistaken for a pimple or an ingrown hair.” After accidentally scratching it and causing it to bleed, he suspected basal cell skin cancer, which was later confirmed.
Dr. Shah underwent Mohs surgery, a precise procedure to remove skin cancer layer by layer.
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, or any other unusual changes in your skin, nails, or lips, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional.
Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of skin cancer treatment.
For those seeking support or more information, the American Cancer Society is available at 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, which operates 24/7 every day of the year.
Have you or someone you know been affected by skin cancer? Do you have tips for remembering to check for these less obvious signs? Share your stories and advice in the comments below!
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, and more than two people die each hour in the United States from this disease.
But while many of us are vigilant about checking our skin for the telltale signs of cancer, there are other, less obvious indicators that we might be missing—signs that can appear on our lips and nails. Let's delve into the silent warnings of skin cancer that could be hiding in plain sight.
Dr. Emily Alfonsi, a skin cancer specialist at Shade Skin, has shed light on some of the less commonly known symptoms of skin cancer.
“Skin cancer doesn’t always present in obvious ways,” she explained to Mirror Online. “Recognizing subtle changes in your skin, nails, or lips can be crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. It’s vital to be proactive in seeking medical advice if something doesn’t seem right.”
A doctor has highlighted lesser-known symptoms of skin cancer, including changes to lips and nails.Image source: Pexels / Angela Roma.
Chapped lips are a common complaint, especially during the harsh winter months.
However, if you find that your lips remain sore and cracked despite using moisturizing treatments, it could be a red flag. Persistent chapped lips might indicate squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer often caused by cumulative sun damage.
Dr. Alfonsi warns, “If your lips do not improve with treatment or you notice additional symptoms such as persistent sores, lumps, or changes in color, it’s important to seek medical attention.”
When checking for signs of skin cancer, don't forget to examine your nails.
A dark streak, spot, or irregular pigmentation under the nail could be a symptom of subungual melanoma—a rare but serious type of skin cancer.
This form of cancer is not linked to sun exposure and is most likely to develop in your big toe, thumb, or index finger. The Cleveland Clinic advises paying close attention to any unusual changes in your nails.
Early detection is key when it comes to skin cancer. Dr. Alfonsi emphasizes that skin cancer is “highly treatable” if found early. This sentiment is echoed by Dr. Muneeb Shah, who experienced a skin cancer scare himself.
He noticed a “pink, itchy bump that could be mistaken for a pimple or an ingrown hair.” After accidentally scratching it and causing it to bleed, he suspected basal cell skin cancer, which was later confirmed.
Dr. Shah underwent Mohs surgery, a precise procedure to remove skin cancer layer by layer.
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, or any other unusual changes in your skin, nails, or lips, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional.
Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of skin cancer treatment.
For those seeking support or more information, the American Cancer Society is available at 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, which operates 24/7 every day of the year.
Have you or someone you know been affected by skin cancer? Do you have tips for remembering to check for these less obvious signs? Share your stories and advice in the comments below!
