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Worried about Skin Cancer

RebeccaB
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Hi,

I'm 23 and about 4 years ago, I developed a mole at the top of my back. Its perfectly round and reddish in colour. It sometimes get's itchy as it is where my hair falls and where labels on clothing are but nothing major, i just ignore it.= and i's never changed since it grown. I had it checked when it first developed and my GP wasn't concerned. Within the same period (not sure when, could have been there before) a small pea sized lump under my skin appeared on my back (quite far down from the mole). Eveyone says its a cyst as my back is really oily and its painless. However, i've recently read Melanoma and lumps under the skin are connected and it could be a sign it's spread? 

I haven't been worried for the last 4 years but now im starting to really panick! I've had other health probelms going on for the last 3 years inlcuidng GERD and Sinus/Ear Infections where my lymph nodes flare up from time to time and feel unwell. Could these be connected? I have quite severe Health Anxiety so this is starting to really effect me mentally.

I think it's best to get this mole checked out again but should i be panicking like i am?

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    Hi don't panic, lymph nodes are to far away from skin to affect any moles. Most people start reading up on things and start to panic ("don't) if you are not sure about your mole go to the doctors. But try to relax I know it's hard but try keep your self busy find something you like to do. Look after yourself.

    Billy 

  • Offline in reply to Billygoat

    Hi RebeccaB

    Please don't search Dr Google - it scares you to death & is not up to date. 

    If your mole hasn't changed since it was checked by your GP I doubt it is anything to worry about. With regard to the small lump - the way you describe it I don't think it will be a lymph node as there are none in that area. The nodes that flare up in your neck won't be connected because a node affected by melanoma does not reduce in size, it always stay swollen. 

    For your peace of mind I suggest you get your GP to check out the lump on your back - it could be one of several benign possibilities like a fatty cyst. Take care,

    Angie (melanoma patient)

  • Hello Rebecca and thanks for your post

    I'm sorry that you are worried about a lump that has developed in your back.There is probably a good chance that this has nothing to do with your mole or other current symptoms.

    I think a lot of people with new or ongoing symptoms worry about cancer,but for most symptoms there are a lot of other potential explanations and usually it is more likely that something else is the matter.  But it's best to get checked out just to be on the safe side.So,do make an appointment to see your GP.

    You can also get support from your GP to help manage your anxiety.You may be interested to know that the NHS Moodzone website has some tips on managing anxiety and how to access support services which might be helpful to you.

    I hope this helps.If you want to talk anything over, please give us a call. The freephone number is 0808 800 4040, and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind Regards,

    Celene

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