Should You Have Your Mole Checked? 3 Reasons Why You Should

If you have moles on your body, you aren't alone. Most people do have moles, some may be big and some may be tiny. The moles you do have though may change with time, and these moles are the ones that you should have checked. Not all moles need to be checked, and not all moles are bad. If you have moles on your body and you aren't sure which ones need to be checked, read on for a few reasons why you should.

1. Your Mole Is Changing In Color

If your mole is changing in color, such as it's black instead of brown, or it's reddish instead of brown, you should have it checked. Your mole changing in color could just occur with time, or it may have darkened from the sun, but if it has changed, it's time to have it checked to be sure it isn't cancerous. 

2. Your Mole Is Causing You Pain

Your mole shouldn't be painful at all. If you are feeling pain coming from your mole, it may be more than a mole, or it could be something else, or your mole may be infected in some way. If you've tried to remove your mole yourself, or it's been injured in some way and hasn't healed properly, you should have your mole checked.

3. Your Mole Is Growing

If your mole is raising further from your skin or is multiplying in some way and growing larger, you should have it inspected. If you have your mole inspected, the dermatologist can check on the size of the mole and check on its growth to monitor how much it is growing. If it's growing too quickly, it should be checked and may need to be removed.

If you have noticed these issues with your moles, you should get to the dermatologist to have them inspected and tested as needed. If your mole needs to be removed, the dermatologist can usually do this procedure in the office. The mole is then sent off for testing for cancerous cells. If the mole has cancerous cells, you may need to have more of your skin removed to remove all of the cancerous cells. Further treatment may be necessary, such as radiation or chemotherapy if cancer has spread further.

Keep an eye on your moles and pay attention to signs that may indicate that your moles should be checked or tested for cancer. Make an appointment with the dermatologist to learn more about mole treatment options.