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Warning-sign checks

Melanoma skin cancer: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency care for severe trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, confusion, uncontrolled bleeding, or another rapidly worsening symptom.

    These are not typical early signs of a skin melanoma, but they can signal a serious general problem or treatment reaction.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • 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 is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • 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
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Do not wait for a routine skin check if a spot is changing.

    Most examined skin marks are not melanoma, but assessment is the only way to know whether testing is needed.

    Follow the urgent-contact instructions given with systemic cancer treatment.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a prompt, non-emergency appointment if you notice:

    • A new spot or mole that looks unusual
    • A mole changing in size, shape, colour, or texture
    • A spot that repeatedly crusts, bleeds, itches, or does not heal
    • A changing dark mark under a nail
    • A mark that looks different from all your others

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has noticed a lump, a mole that has changed, or unexplained weight loss

The article also says

If you have already been treated, report a new lump, persistent unexplained symptom, or possible treatment side effect to your care team.

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