Concerns About a Mole: Is It Serious?
For the past four months, I've had something on my upper left abdomen that concerns me. The texture is rather rough, almost like it could be peeled off like a scab. About two weeks ago, I felt compelled to pick at it, which led to some bleeding and noticeable discoloration at the edge. I haven't observed any changes in size, yet I find it alarming that it hasn’t healed. What could be the issue? I often suffer from sunburns, adding to my worries about this spot. A bit about me: I'm a 21-year-old male weighing 103 kilograms. I don't consume alcohol or smoke. I take a supplement of 25,000 IU of Vitamin D3 once a month and have had deficiencies in both Vitamin D and B12 in the past. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Answers (1)
6/26/2025, 4:20:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a persistent mole or skin issue, especially given your history with sunburns. The rough texture, bleeding, and discoloration you describe warrant careful observation. Although not all irregularities are serious, certain characteristics can indicate the need for further evaluation.
Explanation: Moles can change over time due to various factors, including sun exposure, irritation, or even hormonal changes. Picking at a mole can lead to bleeding and changes in color, which might make it appear more alarming. The fact that it hasn’t healed may suggest that it’s reacting to irritation or could indicate a more complex issue.
It's essential to consider the characteristics of your mole based on the "ABCDE" rule, which helps to assess moles for potential issues:
- Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other.
- Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges.
- Color: Varied colors (brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue).
- Diameter: Larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- Evolution: Changes in size, shape, color, or texture over time.
Next Steps:
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Avoid Picking: Refrain from picking at the mole, as this can worsen irritation and delay healing. Try to keep the area clean and covered if needed to prevent further irritation.
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Monitor Changes: Over the next few weeks, keep an eye on the mole for any changes in size, shape, color, or texture. Document these observations to help identify patterns or concerns.
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Sun Protection: Since you often experience sunburns, it's vital to protect your skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, even on cloudy days, and consider wearing protective clothing when outdoors.
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Consider Nutritional Health: Given your history of vitamin deficiencies, ensure you are getting adequate nutrients. Talk to a healthcare provider about your Vitamin D and B12 levels, as they could impact your skin health. You might want to explore dietary sources of these vitamins or appropriate supplementation.
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Seek Professional Evaluation: If you notice any concerning changes in the mole, or if it does not heal within a month, consider scheduling a visit with a dermatologist for a professional assessment. They can offer insight and determine if any treatment is necessary.
Taking these steps can help you manage your current worry while also maintaining good skin health. If you have further questions or concerns, feel free to ask!
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