T.J. Samson | Destination Health | August 2019

Wellness You may have heard that melanoma is the most serious type of skin can- cer. And that’s definitely true. But why is that? Read on for answers to this and other must-know questions about melanoma: Q: What is melanoma? A: Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that starts in the melanocytes, cells that give skin its color. Q: Why is it so dangerous? A: Melanoma is far less common than other types of skin cancer, such as squamous and basal cell carcinomas. But melanoma is more likely to spread deep into the skin or to other parts of the body if it isn’t treated in time. It can even be fatal if it is diagnosed at a late stage. Q: Who is at risk for melanoma? A: You are more likely to get melanoma if you have fair skin that burns easily. But even people with dark skin can get melanoma. In fact, anyone can get this disease. One of the biggest risk factors is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light over the years—including light from the sun, sunlamps or tanning beds. Having many moles can also raise your risk of melanoma. Q: Can you prevent it? A: You can reduce your risk by limit- ing UV exposure. When spending time outdoors, wear sunscreen with a sun protec- tion factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Whenever possible, stay in the shade and wear protec- tive clothing and gear, like long-sleeved shirts, hats and sunglasses. And don’t try to tan—from the sun’s rays or in a tanning booth. Q: What does melanoma look like? A: Signs to watch for include a new skin spot or a change in an existing mole. When evaluating moles for possible mela- noma, remember the ABCDEs of melanoma: Asymmetry. One half of the mole looks different from the other half. Borders. The mole has irregular borders. Color. The mole has multiple colors. Diameter. Most melanomas are larger than a pencil eraser. Evolving. The mole is changing in size, shape or color. Tell your doctor if you notice any of these signs or if you notice other moles or skin changes that itch, ooze, bleed or just look abnormal. Melanoma can be successfully treated when caught early. Sources: American Academy of Dermatology: National Cancer Institute Heartburn happens—but usually not that often, thankfully. If heartburn is a frequent problem for you, however, you might actually have a more serious condition called GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. With GERD, that burning feeling in the chest and throat typically occurs two or more times a week. It happens when stomach acids rise up into the esophagus. Over time, severe GERD may damage the esophagus, which can increase the risk of cancer. So if you have ongoing heartburn, it’s important to tell your doctor. FINDING RELIEF If you do have GERD, there are treatments that can help control it. Your doctor may suggest: Lifestyle changes ■  ■ Losing weight, if needed. ■  ■ Quitting smoking, if you smoke. ■  ■ Avoiding heartburn triggers, such as acidic, greasy or spicy foods or alcoholic drinks. ■  ■ Avoiding tight clothing that can force stomach acids upward. ■  ■ Avoiding eating within three hours of bedtime. ■  ■ Placing blocks under your bedposts to raise the head of your bed. Medicines Doctors often recommend over-the- counter antacids at first. But other medicines may be needed to block or decrease stomach acids, such as: ■  ■ H2 blockers for short-term relief. ■  ■ Proton pump inhibitors for long- term relief. Surgery In severe cases of GERD, surgery may be used to help reinforce the muscles that normally keep stomach acid where it belongs. Fighting fire: Is it heartburn or more? Learn the facts about melanoma Q & A: Get relief for GERD. Call the T.J. Health Pavilion: 270-651-1111. August 2019 3