Cutaneous skin tag: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Sudden collapse, breathing difficulty, or other unrelated severe symptoms should be handled as emergencies in the usual way rather than attributed to a skin tag.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Make a prompt appointment if a presumed skin tag:

   • Grows quickly or changes noticeably
   • Has an irregular shape or several colours
   • Becomes persistently painful
   • Develops an open sore
   • Bleeds repeatedly without being caught or cut
   • Feels firm or has a broad base rather than a soft stalk

   Get urgent medical help if bleeding continues despite firm, steady pressure with clean gauze or cloth.

   Urgent assessment is also appropriate for spreading redness, worsening swelling, pus, fever, or severe pain after injury or attempted removal.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange a routine appointment if a skin growth is new and its identity is uncertain, or if it is causing repeated irritation.

   Assessment is also appropriate if removal is wanted because it catches on clothing, affects vision, or causes distress.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • has noticed a lump, a mole that has changed, or unexplained weight loss
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Cutaneous skin tag. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.