The last two trips to the dermatologist led to some more treatments with liquid nitrogen, and some biopsies. All but one of the biopsies were clear, but the one, which was on a small area that felt like it had a metal shaving in it, revealed squamous cell carcinoma. Fortunately, the biopsy removed all of the cancer, so the next phase is to keep an eye on the area, and let the doctor know if something doesn't seem right.
The doctor prescribed a topical medication (Flourouracil) for the areas of keratosis the sun caused over the years of exposure. So far, it seems to be working, and over time, will remove the areas of damage. That's a good thing, because I was finding parts of my lower arms as ugly as homemade soap.
So, it continues. I pay for the foolishness of my youth, but have been lucky by not having dreaded Melanoma. Time will tell if I avoid this forever, but since I keep a close eye on my skin, even if I do, the chances of it becoming dangerous will be greatly reduced if caught early.
Have you tried bumping up your intake of antioxidants? blueberries, strawberries, cranberry juice, and the like. V8 Fusion juice too...
ReplyDeleteIt's a non proven homeopathic thing, but who knows?
I hope you are OK.
I take supplements, and try to eat nutritious foods.
DeleteI've been a little put out about the promoting of antioxidants, since the actual medical benefits are outweighed by the hype to sell products that are unregulated for quantity, and quality.
So far, the cancers found are slow in growth, won't metastasize, unless untreated, and won't cause death. That's good, but I'm more than cautious. My mother died of Melanoma before I was three months old.
May God help you now and in the days to come.
DeleteSounds like very good news, indeed!
ReplyDeleteIt is. Many have a much worse prognosis and treatment.
DeleteI DO think most of our problems in these "senior" years are the result of stupidity when we were young.
ReplyDeleteDiet is certainly another. I'm now doing Keto and feel better, look better.
I'm also taking supplements. I can only hope they are helping to strengthen immunity.
I'm glad you're stayin' on top of this, Jess.
Thanks. When young, I never thought of how those years of working with exposed skin would lead to cancer. What I have is usually not dangerous, but it is unsightly.
DeleteGood news for you. Like you, I keep an eye on my skin and go once a year for a full check. The best thing to do is what you already have planned by monitoring closely. Stay well!
ReplyDelete