Unusual Bump on My Leg – Seeking Advice
Hello Reddit community, I'm here anonymously to discuss something that has been bothering me and is admittedly quite awkward. I'm a 32-year-old woman, approximately 5'3" and around 250 pounds, and I’ve developed an unusual growth on the back of my left thigh. Due to limited health coverage in the U.S., I'm looking for some guidance on whether I should seek medical attention for this issue. This growth appeared back in 2019, and initially, I took it for a skin tag since it wasn't particularly large, though it had a rounder shape than the typical ones. Given my weight, I wasn't shocked to discover a skin tag, so I mentioned it during a dermatologist visit (back when I had decent insurance). A medical student removed it with a scalpel during the appointment, and neither the doctor nor the student expressed any concerns about it, which I took as reassurance that it was benign. Now, fast forward to 2024, and I’ve just noticed that the “tag” has re-emerged. Due to my poor insurance situation, I hesitated to consult anyone regarding its removal, believing it to be purely a cosmetic issue. Now it’s February 2026, and this bump, which I once thought was just a skin tag, has transformed into a growth resembling a football, measuring about 1.5 inches at its widest point and tapering to about half an inch in length. It frequently appears red and occasionally bleeds where it interfaces with my skin—far smaller in size than the overall bump—likely due to gravity. There is no sensation in this growth, but I've been contemplating whether wrapping it in unflavored dental floss would help it detach eventually. However, I’m apprehensive about this method and its potential repercussions. While I do possess a photograph of the growth, I’d rather not share it publicly due to embarrassment; I would be willing to send it privately to a verified healthcare professional for a clearer insight into the situation. I anticipate that some might bring up my weight in their comments, but I'm specifically not looking for weight-related feedback unless you believe it directly ties into what's happening, for which I provided that information. Thank you for your understanding, and I appreciate any advice you might have on this matter!
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 5:30:40 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about an unusual growth on your skin, especially since it has changed over time. The change you've described, from a small bump to a larger, bleeding growth, does warrant further consideration. Here’s a structured response addressing your situation:
Key Points:
- Change in Size and Appearance: The growth has increased in size and has begun to bleed, which could indicate that it requires medical evaluation.
- Self-Care Considerations: It’s important to avoid home remedies like tying it with dental floss, as this could lead to injury or infection.
- Prioritize Medical Evaluation: Given the changes, seeking professional advice is essential to rule out any serious conditions.
Explanation:
Initially thought to be a skin tag, your growth has evolved in size and character over the years. Skin tags are typically harmless, but any growth that changes significantly in size, color, or starts bleeding should be assessed by a healthcare professional. While limited insurance coverage may be a concern, prioritizing your health is crucial.
Next Steps:
- Observe for Changes: Keep monitoring the growth for any additional changes in size, color, or discharge, and maintain a record of these observations.
- Avoid Home Remedies: Do not attempt to remove the growth using dental floss or other methods, as this could lead to complications like infection or further bleeding.
- Explore Low-Cost Options: Look for community health clinics or dermatology programs that offer reduced fees based on income, which might help you receive necessary care without significant financial burdens.
- Consider Telehealth Services: If in-person visits are not feasible, some platforms offer affordable consultations where you can discuss your condition with a professional who can provide guidance and possibly recommend an evaluation.
Your health is the most important factor to consider. While it might feel awkward, seeking help for changes in skin growths is a common concern, and professionals can provide care in a compassionate and understanding manner.
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