Newbie

Adam55

Hi Adam and a very warm welcome to the online community

My melanoma was also on my arm, although my left, and I was diagnosed four years ago now.

I don't think the worry that a new ache or pain is melanoma related ever really goes away so I know how you feel about this pain around your knee. Hopefully your GP will be able to find out what's causing it.

I don't wear sunscreen in this country (UK in case you're not based here) during the months of November to March inclusive but would wear sunglasses, not from the point of protecting my eyes against UV but because of the glare from the sun. This is based on the information that I was provided with when first diagnosed.

I'm still covered up when I go for a walk but that's because of the cold rather than the rays! I do enjoy the feel of the sun on my skin during the winter months and it's obviously good for adding a little bit of Vitamin D. 

I don't draw the curtains in my house in the summer when it's sunny but I would move into a chair that's not directly in the sun if necessary.

x

Thanks for the info. Yes I am trying to limit using sunscreen as much as i can so thats interesting advice from you.  From April ill certainly wear it. Yes itll be good to see my GP who is very understanding and its a face to face which really helps.  Thanks Adam 

I feel I should make it clear that I'm not advising you against wearing sunscreen during the winter months Adam55 but telling you what I do.

You should follow whatever guidelines you were given when diagnosed and if this included wearing sunscreen in the winter then follow those guidelines.

Let me know how you get on when you see your GP next week.

x

Yes i noted that. ! Yes there seem to be conflicting info about this. Ill make an assessment each day I think as I also have the UV apps which guide me too.  Thanks 

Actually i was given no guidelines at all from medical professionals about winter sun  and not even summer really. I found out more online to be honest.  I thought this was quite disappointing as its a big area of safety. 

I must admit that I assumed that everyone diagnosed with skin cancer would be given a leaflet explaining how to minimize the risk of getting a second one so it's disappointing that you weren't. 

You may already have seen this but clicking here will take you to BAD's (British Association of Dermatologists) leaflet called Skin Cancer: How to reduce the risk of getting a second one.

x

Sorry yes i did get leaflets but no one to one discussion as yet with a medical professional apart from brief meetings with them.

Adam55

When I was first diagnosed my consultant gave me the details of a SCNS (skin cancer nurse specialist) and said that she would be my point of contact if I had any questions. Of course I had loads so made an appointment to see her and, while we mainly discussed my upcoming surgery, I also took the opportunity of talking to her about how to best protect my skin. 

I realise that access to professionals isn't as easy now, due to the pandemic, but you could still chat through anything you want to know with your SCNS.

x

Hi Adam55

I was just wondering how you got on when you went to see your GP about the pain in your leg?

x