There are three main types of skin cancer: melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. Most commonly you would seek advice and treatment from an oncologist and/or dermatologist. But there are some home treatments and precautions you should follow in addition to medical treatment you receive from your doctor to ensure you get the most out of your treatment plan and have a safe recovery.
Protection from the Sun
It is very important to protect your skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, especially after having or removal of skin cancer. Avoid being in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., as this is when it is at its strongest. But regardless of what time of the day you are outside, it is imperative that you wear the right clothes to protect your skin, such as a long-sleeve shirt, a hat with a brim that shades your face, neck and ears, and pants, rather than shorts, that cover your legs.
Always wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 that protects against both UVB and UVA rays, and stay away from tanning salons and sunbathing.
Self-Examination
You are your first line of defense where your body is concerned, so do regular self-examinations to look for any signs of skin abnormalities. Look for any changes in your skin, especially where you have moles or skin growths. Also, be aware of changes in the color of the skin and moles, as well as any changes in the shape or size. Learn where your lymph nodes are so you can check them for swelling regularly. If you find anything out of the ordinary, see your doctor immediately.
Managing Side Effects from Cancer Treatments
Radiation and chemotherapy can be very hard on a person, so learning to manage their side effects is imperative. Eat a healthy diet and taking any medications that your doctor has prescribed to help with such symptoms as nausea and vomiting. Always consult with your doctor about your specific side effects.
Curaderm
Curaderm is a cream made with eggplant that is applied directly to the skin. It works by getting deep into skin cells and helps dissolve cancer cells. Once the cream is applied it should be covered with a protective covering, such as micro tape, to keep the cream on the area for a longer period of time. The cream, which should be applied several times a day, is said to have a 78 percent success rate in treating skin cancer and precancerous cells. It could take a week to a few months to see results.
Communication
It is very important to keep the lines of communication with open, because you are the one who will notice any differences in your skin. Report any changes as quickly as possible so you catch things early, as the key to successful recovery is early detection.
Tags: your doctor, your skin, cell carcinoma, medical treatment, protect your, protect your skin,