Hi NinaRoger,

I can understand your anxiety but take a few deep breaths and think about what may have changed recently. Firstly, are you sure they are moles? Have you been sunbathing recently? They may possibly be freckles due to sun exposure. Have you been using a new sunscreen that may be causing an allergic reaction? Or have you changed your washing powder/conditioner/shower gel or anything similar that may cause an allergic reaction & itching? The mole on your arm - is that new or an existing one that you think has changed?

The reason I ask this is because lots of things can cause itching. To have itching on your arm & back would not mean the marks/moles are cancerous - cancerous moles never occur at the same time as they are caused by UV damage over a period of time. Many people who have a melanoma never get another one and those that do usually get them several years apart. They are not like a rash where they spread. So I'm wondering if your new, itchy ones on the back are an allergic rash. For the moment try using a soothing agent on them - after sun, a good moisturiser or calamine cream, to see if they improve.

The one on your arm - if it's an existing one that has changed in appearance, get it checked out with your GP but there is every chance it's fine. At your age there is less chance it's something serious and, if it's a new mole, it's common for young adults to get new one. Your GP may ask you to send photos of your arm & back moles & they will then decide if it's an easily treatable skin condition or if it needs further examination by a dermatologist. Don't panic if they refer you to see one - 75% of patients who are referred are given a clean bill of health so the odds that your moles are fine are good.

Meanwhile, to try & ease your anxiety make sure you don't Google (it's old information and only gives worse case scenarios). Keep busy doing something you enjoy - try meditation or mindfulness (lots on YouTube), go for a walk in the fresh air, anything to distract yourself from worrying. 

Good luck and please let us know how you get on,

Angie (melanoma patient)