Melanoma and Inflammation

MELANOMA

Melanoma refers to a cancer of the skin. Most cases of melanoma look like a mole but can also be oddly shaped.

Cases of melanoma have increased over the past few years; scientists attribute this to the depletion of the ozone layer so that we have less protection from the sun's ultraviolet rays, and from persons who tan whether outside or in a tanning salon.

Any case of melanoma needs a doctor's intervention as this cancer can spread throughout the system, but if caught early enough is usually very treatable. Most cases of melanoma can be cut away from the body in a very simple procedure.

Anyone with any odd shaped marks on their body that looks like a mole, or anyone that has a mole that is changing color or shape, should have this area checked out by their doctor immediately.

The rise in cases of melanoma is also why it's important to wear sunscreen and to protect your skin when outside. This is especially true of those who are very fair skinned and so may burn more easily than others; having fair skin and being more prone to sunburn is a symptom of your skin being more sensitive to the sun's rays. Even if you're going to be outside only for a few hours it's important to wear sunscreen on your face, neck, shoulders, and other exposed parts of the body.

INFLAMMATION

Any type of swelling or inflammation of the skin is caused by cellular infiltration or a rush of blood to the skin cells at that time. Usually inflammation is due to an injury, illness, or allergy to a certain element.

When blood rushes to a certain area of the skin you will notice that it swells and is difficult to move as it was before. For example, those with arthritis or a swelling of the joints have a hard time grasping things or bending their knees. This swelling of the skin cells takes away the skin's elasticity and makes it more rigid and difficult to move as it should be. It often even feels more rigid and unnatural to the sufferer.

An inflammation is something that typically goes away after a certain time but sometimes is a symptom of something more serious happening under the skin. If you have any unexplained inflammation of the skin that does not go away after a day or two, you would do well to seek medical attention.

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