Understanding Moles: When to Keep an Eye and When to use our mole removal service.
Moles, also known as nevi, are common skin growths that most of us have. They can appear anywhere on the skin, alone or in groups. While most moles are harmless, it’s important to monitor them for any changes, as they can sometimes signal more serious conditions, including skin cancer. Here’s a guide to help you understand moles better and know when it’s time to contact a doctor.
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What are Moles?
Moles are clusters of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) that appear as small, dark spots on the skin. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colours. Most moles are benign and develop during childhood and adolescence, often influenced by genetics and sun exposure.
Monitoring Your Moles
Regularly checking your moles is crucial for early detection of any potential problems. Follow the ABCDE rule to spot warning signs:
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A for Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other half.
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B for Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
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C for Colour: The colour is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue.
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D for Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimetres (about the size of a pencil eraser).
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E for Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or colour, or is starting to itch, bleed, or crust over.
When to Contact a Doctor
While many moles are harmless, certain changes should prompt a visit to a clinician. Go to the NHS website for more guidance.
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you have a mole that's changed size, shape or colour.
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you have a mole that's painful or itchy.
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you have a mole that's inflamed, bleeding or crusty.
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you have a new or unusual mark on your skin that has not gone away after a few weeks.
Why Remove a Mole?
Most moles are harmless and not typically treated by the NHS. However, if you have a benign mole that is bothersome or unsightly, we offer cost-effective solutions for mole removal surgery. Our services are designed to help you address these concerns efficiently.
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If you have a mole that fits this description, the Minor Surgery Clinic is here to help. Please visit our contact us page to get in touch with us for assistance.
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Understanding moles and being aware of changes in them can help you identify potential issues early on. By monitoring your moles regularly and knowing when to seek medical advice, you can take control of your skin health and ensure early detection of any concerning changes. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your skin.
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For professional and cost-effective mole removal services and other raised skin lesions, don't hesitate to contact us. We're dedicated to helping you maintain healthy, clear skin.