Dermatology is the branch of medical science accountable for the care and treatment of the skin, hair, and nails. A general practice dermatologist is a medically certified physician qualified to treat skin, hair, and nail diseases and also skin cancers. Lots of dermatologists also have supplementary training for the treatment of skin cancer. An assessed one in five individuals will develop some kind of skin cancer at some point in their life. Luckily, the cure rate is as high as 99% for maximum skin cancers if they are found and treated timely. When cancer, such as melanoma, is not spotted and treated timely, it can move into the lymph nodes and other organs of the body and is possibly deadly. That is why it is imperative to take your skin seriously and visit the best dermatologist in Gurgaon on a regular basis if you are at high risk for skin cancer.
Do I need to visit a dermatologist?
If you have never been tested, consider seeing a dermatologist for a preliminary assessment. The incidence of future visits depends on risk factors such as age, sun impairment and any previous skin cancers. Individuals at high risk for skin cancer should contemplate visiting a dermatologist at least once a year and more often if any vicissitudes in the skin are perceived.
Who is considered high-risk for skin cancer?
Anybody who has been overexposed to the sun (sunburned) principally in childhood is at an augmented risk for skin cancer. Folks with fair skin, light colored hair (blonde or red), blue or green eyes, or a family history of skin cancer are also considered at a greater risk than others. Extreme tanning salon exposure or exposure to radiation, immune suppression or organ transplant, and certain chemicals can also upsurge an individual’s risk of skin cancer.
I fit one or some of the high risk factors, now what?
It is imperative to schedule a visit with a dermatologist to get a reference point of your skin’s health and to let the dermatologist assess any moles, spots, lesions or skin growths. New skin growths or spots can be a sign of skin cancer. It is also vital to note that moles and spots you have had at length can intermittently change and develop tumorous cells. In consequence, it is imperative to let an expert give you a full body skin check to decide if you have any dubious or concerning regions that necessitate a further look. Your dermatologist can also give you guidance for self-examinations in between doctor assessments. Self-examination makes you your own advocate for early detection and helps you keep your dermatologist notified of any vicissitudes that might have the potential for tumorous cells.
What am I watching for during self-examination?
Everybody should execute regular self-examinations of their skin for signs of changes, even if you do not have any of the high risk factors. Memorize your spots and then check yourself once a month. If you try to check yourself each day, it is challenging to observe any changes and you will drive yourself crazy! Signs to look for are coarse or flaking areas, particularly flat scaly areas that are red or brown; any prevailing mole or spot that is growing or changing; a lesion that is bleeding, crusty, or excruciating and does not heal after two weeks or heals and returns; a rigid flat or sunken growth; a pearl-shaped lump; and any new apprehensive growth. If you spot any of these conditions, you should see a dermatologist instantaneously.