4 Skin Changes That Can Signal an Underlying Health Problem
(And when to get them checked)
Our skin is the body’s largest organ, and sometimes it reflects what’s happening inside. While most skin changes are harmless and linked to things like allergies, stress, or hormones, certain persistent or unusual changes may signal an underlying medical condition, including—rarely—cancer.
This article is not meant to diagnose, but to help you recognize when something deserves medical attention.
1. New or Changing Moles That Don’t Heal
Moles are common and usually harmless. However, a mole that:
- Changes in size, shape, or color
- Has uneven borders
- Becomes itchy, painful, or starts bleeding
- Looks very different from your other moles
should be checked by a healthcare professional. These changes can sometimes be linked to skin cancers, especially if they continue over time.
Tip: Doctors often use the “ABCDE” guide (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving) to evaluate moles.
2. Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes
A yellow tint to the skin or the whites of the eyes can indicate jaundice, which happens when the liver isn’t processing bilirubin properly.
Possible causes include:
- Liver conditions
- Gallbladder issues
- Certain cancers affecting the liver or pancreas
If yellowing appears suddenly or worsens, medical evaluation is important.
3. Persistent Itching or Dark Patches Without a Clear Cause
Occasional itching is normal. But ongoing, intense itching or unexplained darkened skin patches—especially around the neck, underarms, or groin—can sometimes be linked to internal conditions.
In rare cases, these signs are associated with hormonal changes or internal tumors, but they are far more commonly caused by non-serious conditions like eczema or insulin resistance.
4. Sores or Spots That Don’t Heal
Cuts and blemishes usually heal within a few weeks. A sore that:
- Doesn’t heal after several weeks
- Keeps reopening
- Looks scaly, crusted, or inflamed
should be examined by a doctor. Long-lasting skin lesions can occasionally be linked to skin cancers or immune system issues.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should consider getting medical advice if a skin change:
- Persists longer than a month
- Continues to worsen
- Appears suddenly without explanation
- Is combined with symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or pain
Early evaluation doesn’t mean something is seriously wrong—it simply helps rule out problems or catch them early.
Final Reminder
Most skin changes are not cancer. Stress, growth, hormones, allergies, and infections cause far more skin symptoms than serious illness. Still, paying attention to your body and getting unusual changes checked is a smart habit at any age.
