Melanoma only makes up around one percent of skin cancer cases. However, it is the most deadly form of skin cancer. There isn’t one specific thing that causes melanoma, but it is thought to be greatly impacted by both genetic and environmental factors. The main cause of melanoma development is believed to be ultraviolet radiation (or UV ray) exposure from tanning beds and the sun.

Since this form of skin cancer is so aggressive, it is important to be able to identify the symptoms of melanoma:

1. Sores that don’t heal

If you start to get random sores and aren’t sure where they are coming from it, it may be melanoma. These spots can pop up out of nowhere and can have a difficult time healing.

2. Changes in skin texture

Melanoma can cause your skin to get scaly and rough. It can also make it appear like there is a new bump on your skin. This change of texture can happen on the mole or on a completely new spot on your skin.

3. Itchiness

If you have spots on your skin that are starting to get itchy, then it may be a sign of melanoma. There may also be itching around the mole. These spots can get swollen, scaley, and oozy if they are turning into melanoma spots. There can also be feelings of tenderness and soreness whenever you touch them.

4. Changes in moles

If your mole changes, this is one of the first signs of melanoma. This is the most common sign that people experience. If you have a mole and notice that it is starting to change in color or texture, you should assume that it is melanoma. When you get melanoma you will notice moles that are asymmetrical and rough around the edges. Melanoma can also cause your moles to evolve over time. It can change everything from the shape to the diameter to the color. So, make sure that you are conducting a self-examination every so often the check on your moles.

5. Random moles

Moles are a normal thing to have. However, there are certain places that moles should not appear. If you get a mole underneath your nail or on your palm, then it may be melanoma. Hidden moles can also appear in places like your genital area or your eyes. Melanoma in these areas can be very dangerous because they might be mistaken for other conditions that are more common.

6. Blurry vision

If melanoma develops in the eye, it can cause a loss of vision or lead to blurry vision. This should be taken very seriously. If you notice that your eye is changing colors or has a spot on it, then you will want to schedule an eye visit. Ocular, or eye, melanoma is often diagnosed during a quick eye exam by an optometrist.