What causes itchy bumps on skin that look like mosquito bites. How to identify different types of skin rashes. When to seek medical attention for unexplained skin bumps. What are effective treatments for various causes of itchy skin rashes.

Common Causes of Itchy Bumps Resembling Mosquito Bites

Itchy, raised bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites can be caused by various conditions. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for proper treatment and relief. Here are some of the most common culprits:

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives, medically known as urticaria, are a frequent cause of itchy skin bumps. These raised, red or skin-colored welts can appear suddenly and change location rapidly. They affect approximately 20% of people at some point in their lives.

• Triggers: Foods (e.g., peanuts, tree nuts, seafood), latex, pollen, insect stings, medications
• Characteristics: Red, purple, or skin-colored bumps that turn white when pressed
• Duration: Can last for minutes to hours before disappearing

Is there a way to distinguish hives from other skin conditions? Hives typically have a blanching effect when pressure is applied, meaning they temporarily turn white. This characteristic, along with their rapid appearance and disappearance, can help differentiate them from other skin issues.

Bed Bug Bites

Bed bug bites can easily be mistaken for mosquito bites. These tiny parasites feed on human blood, leaving behind itchy bumps on the skin.

• Appearance: Small, red, itchy bumps, often in a line or cluster
• Location: Commonly found on exposed skin during sleep (face, neck, arms, hands)
• Additional signs: Bloodstains on sheets, dark spots on mattresses, musty odor

How can you confirm if bed bugs are the cause? Look for other telltale signs in your sleeping area, such as tiny blood spots on sheets, dark fecal matter on mattresses, or even the bugs themselves hiding in seams and crevices.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to something it touches, resulting in a localized rash or irritation.

• Types: Allergic contact dermatitis (immune response) and irritant contact dermatitis (direct skin damage)
• Common triggers: Metals (e.g., nickel), latex, cosmetics, plants (e.g., poison ivy), cleaning products
• Symptoms: Redness, swelling, itching, and sometimes blistering

Can contact dermatitis be prevented? Identifying and avoiding triggers is key. Keep a log of potential irritants and consult with an allergist for patch testing to pinpoint specific allergens.

Identifying and Treating Scabies Infestations

Scabies is a skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, leading to intense itching and a characteristic rash.

Symptoms of Scabies

• Intense itching, especially at night
• Thin, irregular burrow tracks on the skin
• Small, red, raised bumps
• Common locations: Between fingers, under breasts, around the waist, in the genital area

How is scabies diagnosed? A dermatologist can often diagnose scabies by examining the skin and looking for characteristic burrows. In some cases, they may take a skin scraping to confirm the presence of mites or eggs under a microscope.

Treatment for Scabies

1. Prescription medications: Permethrin cream or oral ivermectin
2. Thorough cleaning of bedding, clothing, and personal items
3. Treatment of close contacts to prevent reinfestation
4. Follow-up treatment may be necessary after 1-2 weeks

Are there any home remedies for scabies? While prescription treatments are the most effective, some people find relief from symptoms using tea tree oil or neem oil. However, these should not replace medical treatment.

Allergic Reactions and Their Manifestations on the Skin

Allergic reactions can manifest in various ways on the skin, often resembling mosquito bites. Understanding these reactions can help in identifying the cause and seeking appropriate treatment.

Types of Allergic Skin Reactions

• Atopic dermatitis (eczema): Chronic, itchy inflammation of the skin
• Angioedema: Swelling beneath the skin, often accompanying hives
• Drug eruptions: Skin reactions to medications
• Food allergies: Can cause hives, itching, or swelling of the lips and face

How quickly do allergic skin reactions develop? The onset can vary from minutes to hours after exposure to the allergen, depending on the type of reaction and individual sensitivity.

Diagnosing Allergic Reactions

Identifying the specific allergen causing a skin reaction can be challenging. Allergists may use several methods to diagnose allergies:

• Skin prick tests
• Blood tests for specific antibodies
• Patch tests for contact allergies
• Elimination diets for suspected food allergies

Is it possible to develop new allergies as an adult? Yes, adults can develop allergies at any age, even to substances they’ve previously tolerated without issue. This phenomenon is known as adult-onset allergy.

Insect Bites and Stings: Beyond Mosquitoes

While mosquito bites are common, various other insects can cause similar-looking bumps and itching. Recognizing the differences can help in providing appropriate treatment and prevention.

Common Culprits

• Fleas: Small, red, itchy bumps often around ankles or legs
• Chiggers: Intensely itchy red bumps, usually in clusters
• Fire ants: Painful, itchy bumps that may develop into pustules
• Bees and wasps: Larger, more painful swellings that can be dangerous for allergic individuals

How can you distinguish between different insect bites? While it can be challenging, the location of bites, their pattern, and accompanying symptoms (such as pain or swelling) can provide clues. For example, flea bites often appear in clusters on the lower legs, while bee stings are usually singular and more painful.

Treatment and Prevention

1. Clean the affected area with soap and water
2. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
3. Use over-the-counter antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream for itching
4. For painful stings, consider taking an oral pain reliever
5. Watch for signs of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

Are there effective natural remedies for insect bites? Some people find relief using natural remedies such as applying a paste made from baking soda and water, using aloe vera gel, or dabbing on some honey. However, these should not replace medical treatment if symptoms are severe or persistent.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Skin Rashes

While many skin rashes and itchy bumps can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant professional medical evaluation. Knowing when to seek help can prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Widespread rash covering a large portion of the body
• Rash accompanied by fever
• Signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, pus, or streaking)
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Severe pain or blistering
• Rash that doesn’t improve with home treatment

How urgently should you seek medical care for a severe rash? If you experience symptoms of anaphylaxis (such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, or swelling of the face or throat), seek emergency medical attention immediately. For other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider within 24 hours.

Diagnostic Approaches

When you visit a healthcare provider for a skin rash, they may use various methods to determine the cause:

1. Visual examination of the rash
2. Detailed medical history, including recent exposures and medications
3. Skin scrapings or biopsies for microscopic examination
4. Blood tests to check for systemic causes or infections
5. Allergy testing if an allergic reaction is suspected

Can telemedicine be effective for diagnosing skin rashes? While many skin conditions can be assessed through high-quality photos and video consultations, some cases may still require in-person examination, especially if additional tests are needed.

Effective Treatments and Home Remedies for Itchy Skin

Managing itchy skin and rashes often involves a combination of medical treatments and home remedies. The right approach depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms.

Medical Treatments

• Topical corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and itching
• Oral antihistamines: Help control itching and allergic reactions
• Antibiotics: Prescribed for bacterial skin infections
• Antifungal medications: Used for fungal skin conditions
• Immunomodulators: For chronic skin conditions like eczema

How long does it typically take for prescription treatments to show results? The timeline can vary depending on the condition and treatment. Some topical treatments may provide relief within a few days, while others might take several weeks to show significant improvement.

Effective Home Remedies

1. Cool compresses: Soothe itchy, inflamed skin
2. Oatmeal baths: Relieve itching and irritation
3. Moisturizing: Keeps skin hydrated and less prone to itching
4. Avoiding triggers: Identifying and steering clear of irritants
5. Wearing loose, breathable clothing: Reduces friction and irritation

Are there any dietary changes that can help with chronic skin conditions? Some people find that an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and low in processed foods can help manage chronic skin conditions. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes.

Prevention Strategies for Common Skin Irritations

Preventing skin irritations and rashes is often easier than treating them. By adopting certain habits and precautions, you can reduce the likelihood of developing itchy bumps and other skin issues.

General Prevention Tips

• Practice good skin hygiene: Regular bathing with mild, fragrance-free soap
• Moisturize regularly: Keeps skin hydrated and less prone to irritation
• Use sun protection: Prevent sun-induced rashes and long-term skin damage
• Choose hypoallergenic products: Reduce the risk of allergic reactions
• Manage stress: Chronic stress can exacerbate many skin conditions

How effective is stress management in preventing skin issues? While stress doesn’t directly cause most skin conditions, it can trigger flare-ups or exacerbate existing problems. Stress reduction techniques like meditation, exercise, and adequate sleep can significantly improve overall skin health.

Specific Prevention Strategies

1. For hives: Identify and avoid known triggers
2. For bed bugs: Regular inspection of bedding and furniture
3. For contact dermatitis: Use protective gloves when handling potential irritants
4. For scabies: Avoid close contact with infected individuals
5. For insect bites: Use insect repellents and protective clothing in high-risk areas

Can dietary supplements help prevent skin irritations? Some studies suggest that certain supplements, such as vitamin D, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids, may support skin health and reduce inflammation. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, as individual needs can vary.

Itchy bumps on skin like mosquito bites: What are they?

Several skin conditions can cause itchy lumps that resemble bug bites. These include allergic reactions, infections, and chronic conditions.

Most people experience this symptom at some point. Itchy bumps can appear as a result of allergies, infections, insects, and, sometimes, nonidentified factors.

However, there is one general principle that the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommend people to follow when their skin itches: Do not scratch it.

Additional general self-care practices for itchy skin include:

• bathing frequently in lukewarm water
• using gentle, hypoallergenic soap
• limiting exposure to the sun
• applying cold compresses
• avoiding tight clothing in areas where itchy bumps appear

Understanding the different conditions that can cause itchy bumps on the skin can help people get appropriate treatment. Depending on the cause, treatment can range from avoiding certain foods to taking prescription medications.

Keep reading to learn more about some common causes of itchy bumps that look like mosquito bites and how to treat them.

The medical term for hives is urticaria, and it describes a condition that produces raised itchy areas on the skin. If a person notices bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites but has not had any exposure to mosquitos, the cause is probably acute urticaria. The term “acute” means that the condition does not last longer than 6 weeks.

Hives are very common, affecting about 20% of people at some point in their lives. Certain kinds of foods, such as peanuts, tree nuts, and seafood, cause hives in many people due to an allergic reaction. Latex, pollen, insects, various plants, and some medications, such as sulfa drugs or even aspirin, may also cause hives.

Hives cause characteristic red, purple, or skin colored itchy bumps that appear and disappear quickly anywhere on the body. These bumps typically turn white or disappear when a person presses them.

Treatment

The treatment for hives depends on the severity and cause of the rash, but it includes avoiding known triggers. People who are extremely allergic to a trigger — for example, peanuts or certain insects — may need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an Epipen. This device can stop a potentially life threatening reaction if a person has accidental contact with a known allergen.

Anti-itching lotions and over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines can provide relief for mild symptoms, while more intense outbreaks may require stronger prescription versions of these drugs or corticosteroids.

Learn more about hives here.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bed bug bites can resemble bites from other bugs, although they can take as long as 2 weeks to materialize.

People who notice itchy bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites should check for:

• other signs of bed bugs
• bed bugs themselves on a mattress or sheet
• dead bed bugs
• blood spots on a mattress or sheet
• the characteristic musty smell associated with bed bugs

If the bites appear in a straight line, they are likely to be due to bed bugs. However, bed bug bugs can also appear in more random formations.

Treatment

Unless someone has a severe allergic reaction, experts recommend simple self-care practices to treat any bites. These include not scratching, applying OTC antiseptic ointments, and taking antihistamines.

Learn more about bed bugs here.

Contact dermatitis is essentially an allergic reaction that develops when a person’s skin comes into contact with something to which they are allergic, such as latex or certain metals or household products.

It can take 1–2 days for the reaction to develop and 2–3 weeks for symptoms to disappear. Contact dermatitis may hurt as much as it itches, and it may present with inflammation and blisters.

Treatment

Self-care with cold compresses, calamine lotion, and soothing baths can help provide relief.

Prescription medication, such as antihistamines and cortisone, may be necessary if the reaction is severe.

Working with healthcare professionals can help people identify their triggers, which can be complicated.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, there are more than 3,700 substances known to cause contact allergies. Avoiding triggers is a key part of managing contact dermatitis, along with thoroughly washing the affected area with soap and water after exposure happens.

Learn more about contact dermatitis here.

The human itch mite is responsible for scabies. This mite digs its way through the top layer of the skin and lays eggs. Its tunnels can sometimes be visible on the surface of the skin, where they appear as raised, crooked, skin colored lines. However, the most common symptom of scabies is itchy bumps on the skin. These are like mosquito bites, only smaller.

Sites of the body that this very itchy condition commonly affects include the wrists, the elbows, between the fingers, and behind the knees.

Treatment

Only a prescription lotion will treat scabies effectively, and individuals need to follow the application directions exactly. Anyone who has had extensive skin-to-skin contact with someone with scabies should also seek treatment.

It is very important that people with scabies thoroughly wash and dry all of their clothes, towels, sheets, bedding, and other household items. Other remedies for scabies may also help.

Learn more about scabies here.

Also known as atopic dermatitis, this common condition causes itchy, red, irritated skin that can sometimes develop bumps. In the long term, it can make the skin thicker, scaly, and flaky, as well as causing it to change color.

Scratching makes eczema worse and increases the risk of infection. Eczema occurs due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, which prompt the immune system to overreact to certain triggers, such as laundry soap or sweating. It typically affects the face, elbows, knees, scalp, and backs of the hands.

Treatment

According to the National Eczema Association, treating eczema calls for a mix of self-care, OTC drugs, and prescription medications. People with eczema can identify and learn to manage or avoid triggers for their outbreaks.

Changing bathing practices and using moisturizer can also help. Prescription lotions, systemic medications, UVB light, and biologics can address more severe symptoms.

Learn more about the different types of eczema here.

Skin problems, such as itchy bumps on the skin similar to mosquito bites, can range from mild to severe.

Some issues, including bed bug bites, can be fleeting, while others, such as allergic reactions to certain foods, are signs of a permanent condition. However, most skin problems generally respond well to treatment.

If the symptoms do not improve with self-care practices, people should see a medical professional to determine what is causing the outbreak and how to treat it.

Itchy bumps on skin like mosquito bites: What are they?

Several skin conditions can cause itchy lumps that resemble bug bites. These include allergic reactions, infections, and chronic conditions.

Most people experience this symptom at some point. Itchy bumps can appear as a result of allergies, infections, insects, and, sometimes, nonidentified factors.

However, there is one general principle that the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommend people to follow when their skin itches: Do not scratch it.

Additional general self-care practices for itchy skin include:

• bathing frequently in lukewarm water
• using gentle, hypoallergenic soap
• limiting exposure to the sun
• applying cold compresses
• avoiding tight clothing in areas where itchy bumps appear

Understanding the different conditions that can cause itchy bumps on the skin can help people get appropriate treatment. Depending on the cause, treatment can range from avoiding certain foods to taking prescription medications.

Keep reading to learn more about some common causes of itchy bumps that look like mosquito bites and how to treat them.

The medical term for hives is urticaria, and it describes a condition that produces raised itchy areas on the skin. If a person notices bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites but has not had any exposure to mosquitos, the cause is probably acute urticaria. The term “acute” means that the condition does not last longer than 6 weeks.

Hives are very common, affecting about 20% of people at some point in their lives. Certain kinds of foods, such as peanuts, tree nuts, and seafood, cause hives in many people due to an allergic reaction. Latex, pollen, insects, various plants, and some medications, such as sulfa drugs or even aspirin, may also cause hives.

Hives cause characteristic red, purple, or skin colored itchy bumps that appear and disappear quickly anywhere on the body. These bumps typically turn white or disappear when a person presses them.

Treatment

The treatment for hives depends on the severity and cause of the rash, but it includes avoiding known triggers. People who are extremely allergic to a trigger — for example, peanuts or certain insects — may need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an Epipen. This device can stop a potentially life threatening reaction if a person has accidental contact with a known allergen.

Anti-itching lotions and over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines can provide relief for mild symptoms, while more intense outbreaks may require stronger prescription versions of these drugs or corticosteroids.

Learn more about hives here.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bed bug bites can resemble bites from other bugs, although they can take as long as 2 weeks to materialize.

People who notice itchy bumps on the skin that resemble mosquito bites should check for:

• other signs of bed bugs
• bed bugs themselves on a mattress or sheet
• dead bed bugs
• blood spots on a mattress or sheet
• the characteristic musty smell associated with bed bugs

If the bites appear in a straight line, they are likely to be due to bed bugs. However, bed bug bugs can also appear in more random formations.

Treatment

Unless someone has a severe allergic reaction, experts recommend simple self-care practices to treat any bites. These include not scratching, applying OTC antiseptic ointments, and taking antihistamines.

Learn more about bed bugs here.

Contact dermatitis is essentially an allergic reaction that develops when a person’s skin comes into contact with something to which they are allergic, such as latex or certain metals or household products.

It can take 1–2 days for the reaction to develop and 2–3 weeks for symptoms to disappear. Contact dermatitis may hurt as much as it itches, and it may present with inflammation and blisters.

Treatment

Self-care with cold compresses, calamine lotion, and soothing baths can help provide relief.

Prescription medication, such as antihistamines and cortisone, may be necessary if the reaction is severe.

Working with healthcare professionals can help people identify their triggers, which can be complicated.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, there are more than 3,700 substances known to cause contact allergies. Avoiding triggers is a key part of managing contact dermatitis, along with thoroughly washing the affected area with soap and water after exposure happens.

Learn more about contact dermatitis here.

The human itch mite is responsible for scabies. This mite digs its way through the top layer of the skin and lays eggs. Its tunnels can sometimes be visible on the surface of the skin, where they appear as raised, crooked, skin colored lines. However, the most common symptom of scabies is itchy bumps on the skin. These are like mosquito bites, only smaller.

Sites of the body that this very itchy condition commonly affects include the wrists, the elbows, between the fingers, and behind the knees.

Treatment

Only a prescription lotion will treat scabies effectively, and individuals need to follow the application directions exactly. Anyone who has had extensive skin-to-skin contact with someone with scabies should also seek treatment.

It is very important that people with scabies thoroughly wash and dry all of their clothes, towels, sheets, bedding, and other household items. Other remedies for scabies may also help.

Learn more about scabies here.

Also known as atopic dermatitis, this common condition causes itchy, red, irritated skin that can sometimes develop bumps. In the long term, it can make the skin thicker, scaly, and flaky, as well as causing it to change color.

Scratching makes eczema worse and increases the risk of infection. Eczema occurs due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, which prompt the immune system to overreact to certain triggers, such as laundry soap or sweating. It typically affects the face, elbows, knees, scalp, and backs of the hands.

Treatment

According to the National Eczema Association, treating eczema calls for a mix of self-care, OTC drugs, and prescription medications. People with eczema can identify and learn to manage or avoid triggers for their outbreaks.

Changing bathing practices and using moisturizer can also help. Prescription lotions, systemic medications, UVB light, and biologics can address more severe symptoms.

Learn more about the different types of eczema here.

Skin problems, such as itchy bumps on the skin similar to mosquito bites, can range from mild to severe.

Some issues, including bed bug bites, can be fleeting, while others, such as allergic reactions to certain foods, are signs of a permanent condition. However, most skin problems generally respond well to treatment.

If the symptoms do not improve with self-care practices, people should see a medical professional to determine what is causing the outbreak and how to treat it.

What to do if bitten by a mosquito and everything itches and itches

Health

June 27

You don’t have to develop willpower.

Why mosquito bites itch so much

Mosquitoes pierce the skin with a special mouth apparatus and suck blood through it. At this time, their saliva, which contains proteins foreign to humans, enters the skin. The immune system reacts to this and inflammation sets in, which manifests itself as an itchy pink bump.

Most people are slightly sensitive to mosquito saliva, so the reaction does not go beyond the bite. But for some, the immune system is more aggressive, so there is a lot of swelling, redness and soreness around. In this case, the temperature may rise, and the general condition may worsen.

How to relieve itching from mosquito bites

Although mosquito bites are very common, there is very little research on their treatment. The fact is that they heal so well: even if you do nothing, the discomfort from the bite will disappear in a couple of days. So scientists tend to focus on diseases that mosquitoes can carry.

This is why most recommendations are based on expert opinion and clinical experience.

Apply an ice cube

Ice slows down blood flow, which means it reduces the reaction to foreign protein – inflammation, pain, swelling and itching. Therefore, apply an ice pack wrapped in a light towel to the bite for at least 10 minutes. Another option is to rub the bump with an ice cube for 30 seconds.

Wipe the bite with an alcohol wipe

Alcohol causes proteins in mosquito saliva to break down, so the reaction should be less. Of course, this will only help immediately after the bite.

Apply calamine lotion

Calamine lotion reduces itching, so may also be useful against mosquito bites.

Apply OTC steroid

Corticosteroids reduce immune response. Therefore, inflammation, itching and pain at the bite sites become less. Apply a very thin layer of cream, such as a hydrocortisone-based cream, spot on the bite.

Apply Antihistamine Ointment

Histamine is a chemical released by immune system cells when it encounters an allergen. So apply antihistamine ointment on the bites to help reduce itching.

Take an over-the-counter antihistamine

For more severe reactions or more bites, you can take an over-the-counter antihistamine to reduce symptoms.

What folk methods can work

These methods have not been tested by scientists to reduce itching from bites. But some of this is used in other situations, and some of it has been tested by experience. So if they help you, use them.

Attach tea bag

The easiest way to apply to the bite is a tea bag that has been wrung out and cooled. You should not use a new one, so that it does not stain the skin.

In addition to ordinary tea, you can take chamomile, as it contains terpenoids and flavonoids, which have antioxidant and antihistamine properties.

Press the sachet against mosquito bites for 10 minutes and then wipe off any remaining tea with a clean towel. You can then put the bag in the refrigerator to make such compresses during the day.

Apply tea tree oil

Tea tree oil reduces inflammation and is said to help with mosquito bites. Remember that it is better not to abuse it, as it can lead to irritation, an allergic reaction and contact dermatitis.

Apply baking soda paste

Add just a little water to baking soda to make a paste. It must be applied pointwise to the bites so that they do not itch so much.

Wipe the bite with vinegar

This substance can also destroy proteins from mosquito saliva, so you can wipe a completely fresh puncture with it.

Apply Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Leaf Gel contains salicylic acid to help reduce itching and pain. So try spotting it on the bite.

Brush the bite with honey

Honey contains the catalase enzyme, which breaks down protein. Therefore, it can reduce inflammation slightly. In general, anoint the bites with honey, and cover the top with gauze so that nothing sticks to you.

Apply oatmeal

Gluten is said to soothe the skin. Therefore, you can grind the cereal in a blender, and then mix it with a little water to make a thick paste. It must be applied to the bite.

Apply pressure to the bite

Sounds strange, but pressure on the bite helps reduce itching. Someone generally makes two dents in the shape of a cross with a fingernail and thinks that this is the best way. Try different options, but try not to scratch the skin to the point of bleeding.

Grate the bite with an onion or banana

Not sure if it will help, but you can try. True, it is better not to leave onion juice on sensitive skin for a long time, because it can cause irritation.

Pat the bite

Instead of scratching, pat the bite. There is an opinion that in this way you will deceive the brain: it will think that you have scratched yourself.

Apply a hot spoon

Heat is thought to help break down proteins in saliva, but immunologist Catriona Nguyen-Robertson says it’s more likely that you’re shifting your focus away from itching again.

You should be careful with this method: if you overdo it, you may get burned.

When to see a doctor about mosquito bites

See a doctor if:

• your general condition worsens and flu-like symptoms develop;
• you are concerned about an excessive skin reaction;
• bites do not go away after a few days, but rather increase in size;
• you have damaged the bite, and an infection has developed there – it is red, sore, maybe there is a discharge.

Read also 🧐

• How to get rid of mosquitoes in the area
• 7 reasons why you are attractive to mosquitoes
• How to choose the right mosquito repellent for children

7 signs of skin cancer that no one pays attention to

Everyone knows that if a mole has changed size or color, you need to urgently run to an oncologist. But it happens that the body gives much less obvious signals that may indicate a malignant skin tumor.

16,000 Britons are diagnosed with skin cancer every year, and 2,500 of them eventually die, reports the Mirror. The good news is that 80 to 100 percent of cases found in stage 1 or 2 are easily treatable. How not to overlook the tumor, said dermatologist Ross Perry.

1. Unexplained scars

Basalioma. Photo © Wikimedia Commons

If out of nowhere you have a scar that grows in size, this may be a sign of a basalioma. It occurs on areas of the skin that are exposed to intense sun exposure. The scar may look like a waxy thickening. This is the most common form of skin cancer, but, fortunately, the least dangerous if detected early.

2. Eruptions on the eyelids

Basalioma on the eyelid. Photo © BOPSS

Eyelid malignancies may be brown, black, red, or flesh-colored. They can be hard to the touch, itchy and painful, or shiny and waxy. It is important to record all the changes that occur to them. To protect your eyelids from ultraviolet light, you need to wear sunglasses or a hat, and use sunscreen.

3. Black spots under nails

Subungual melanoma. Video screenshot: YouTube / The Doctors

Subungual melanoma can easily be confused with a bruise. Most often, it occurs under the thumbnail as a result of regular injury to this area. If left untreated, subungual melanoma can spread to other parts of the body.

4. Itching of the scalp

Squamous cell carcinoma. Photo © Brown University

If your head is constantly itching, take a close look at the skin under your hair. Scalp cancer is more common in men and there are three types. Firstly, it is a basalioma, but it is rare and not so dangerous. The second form is squamous cell carcinoma. It affects fair-skinned people who are often exposed to the sun, and appears as scaly red spots, open sores, rough, thickened, or warty areas of the skin, and raised, dimpled growths. But the most dangerous form is melanoma, and it looks like a normal mole.

5. Non-healing ulcers

Basalioma. Photo © Wikimedia Commons

These sores can look lumpy, dry and scaly. They can also itch and bleed. All these signs indicate the risk of developing basalioma.

6. Non-healing “insect bites”

Site of mosquito bite. Photo © Wikimedia Commons

Red bumps, which in the warm season can easily be mistaken for mosquito bites, can actually be something much more serious. If they have not gone away even after a few weeks, you should go to the doctor to rule out the risk of developing skin cancer.