The First Danger Of Skin Cancer - There Are No Symptoms

Like many other types of cancer, it is likely that those suffering from skin cancer will not exhibit any visible symptoms to lead them to say, "This is skin cancer, and I should go see a doctor to get it taken care of." Developing it, unlike coming down with a cold of catching the stomach flu, does not come with an obvious set of symptoms that scream, "This is skin cancer!" Aside from a simple mole or a splotchy patch of skin, it is rather symptom-less.

As there is no one definitive set of skin cancer symptoms, the disease is one that is extremely hard to self-diagnose. For this reason, you should never try -- always consult a physician. The signs of this cancer are so widely varied -- coming in any number of sizes, shapes and colors -- that it is virtually impossible. Plus, there is the added fact that what may appear to be the most inert form of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma) may actually be the most dangerous (malignant melanoma) and vice versa. This means that one should never take it upon themselves to try and self-diagnose skin cancer. If you see something that looks to be a symptom, always make sure you consult a doctor.

Although you cannot self-diagnose skin cancer, there are a few telltale skin changes that you should always be on the lookout for. And, while these are not always necessarily harbingers of skin cancer, they should be taken seriously as potential warning signs. These include new moles, or old moles that have changed in color or size. Another set of possible symptoms include areas of splotchy or discolored skin and areas where you have developed pussy discharges or unusual bleeding. If you notice any of these changes, you may want to make an appointment with your doctor and ask him or her to take a look.

The most important thing to remember about skin cancer is that, while there may be warning signs, ultimately, it is completely symptom-less. Many who suffer from skin cancer, no matter what form, do not notice until the cancer starts to spread. By the time they develop more serious symptoms like dramatic weight loss or constant fatigue, the cancer may have spread to other organs and become more serious than it would have been if spotted and treated early.