From Heart Disease to Other Aging Issues?

Today I will deviate from my heart health to skin health!  At the age of 59 I thought it was time to see a skin specialist - Dermatologist!  After many year of sun exposure - coaching, golfing, fishing, and other outdoor activities I thought it was time.  I have several marks on my face & one on my right shoulder - today was my check-up!

Visited the Dermatology Associates of Lancaster at 1650 Crooked Oak Drive.  My visit was rewarding - NO SKIN CANCER, but I have several marks that need work.  My two issues are:

Actinic Keratoses

According to the Mayo Clinic - Actinic Keratoses:

An actinic keratosis (ak-TIN-ik ker-uh-TOE-sis) is a rough, scaly patch on your skin that develops from years of exposure to the sun. It's most commonly found on your face, lips, ears, back of your hands, forearms, scalp or neck — areas of skin typically exposed to the sun.

An actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, enlarges slowly and usually causes no signs or symptoms other than a patch or small spot on your skin. An actinic keratosis takes years to develop, usually first appearing in older adults. Many doctors consider an actinic keratosis to be precancerous because it can develop into skin cancer.

So, this one is one to watch - it may turn into skin cancer!

Seborrheic Keratoses

According to the Mayo Clinic - Seborrheic Keratoses:

Seborrheic keratosis (seb-o-REE-ik ker-uh-TOE-sis) is one of the most common types of noncancerous skin growths in older adults.

A seborrheic keratosis usually appears as a brown, black or pale growth on the face, chest, shoulders or back. The growth has a waxy, scaly, slightly elevated appearance. Occasionally, it appears singly, but multiple growths are more common. Seborrheic keratoses don't become cancerous, but they can look like skin cancer.

Seborrheic keratoses are normally painless and require no treatment. You may decide, however, to have them removed if they become irritated by clothing or for cosmetic reasons.

This one does not turn into cancer!

So what did we do today?  The Seborrheic Keratoses was frozen!!  And, they should go away.  The  Actinic Keratoses will take a special cream for three days - Picato.  I had a choice, the cheaper cream would have taken about a month!  This will be three days of treatment.  The healing process is 2-4 weeks.  It will possibly mess up my face for a few weeks, but removing and avoiding skin cancer is key!!!!  More on the use of Picato coming up!