Is this ok ?

[wiver]

I’ve had this mole on my shoulder for years but recently I’ve noticed the darker areas. Could they just be freckles? My shoulders were seriously burnt by the sun in my childhood, proper blisters the size of eggs! Nobody was aware of the dangers of sun damage back then. I’m 46 now and have covered up for most of my adult life. I am a ginger and burn in the shade in December! I will go get this checked but just wondering in the meantime what others think.

You should always get any changes in moles checked out by your GP and they will refer you on to dermatology if they are concerned. I hope it is nothing.

I've had loads of moles like that for years. It's not something that would bother me, but it's up to you, OP.

If you notice changes in moles absolutely get them checked out. If it is cancerous it is really treatable if caught early.

I would totally get that checked. My mum had skin cancer and I regularly get moles checked

It would hurt to get them checked out. Not a big deal - quick appointment. Could save your life

Wouldn’t - it wouldn’t hurt!!!

If you don’t want to see your GP yet, how about this https://www.boots.com/healthhub/skin-services/mole-scanning-service?srsltid=AfmBOorhW_n1X0dc7zsjDrwTgurivLbB6J3hOk3FfCiNmTAUidhT80a0

I will get it checked. A couple of years ago I had an area on my cheek that didn’t heal for weeks. I saw the GP who said it was nothing to worry about and it would go away. It did, he was right but I left feeling a bit like I’d overreacted which is why I’ve been a bit reluctant about going with this. He seemed a bit dismissive and didn’t encourage me to go back with anything else. Appointments are difficult to get at the moment, you have to wait 6-8 weeks for a blood test. I don’t want to waste anyone’s time.

The doctor would not want to miss the opportunity of being able to catch something early just because you thought you might be wasting their time.

Please get it checked out.

So this morning I sent an e consult including photos. I had a call from the receptionist saying the Dr can’t see anything to worry about will see me in 6 weeks to take a look.

Glad yours was ok.

By contrast, I had to send a photo of a freckle that has changed to my dr today. They phoned back offering an appointment tomorrow. 😬 I cant go until Friday. Hoping it's just them being cautious.

Same as you - mid 40s, pale and still have scars on my shoulders from getting sun burned when I was younger.

I had a mole like this on my thigh. It got weird one day and grew to double the size then fell off then grew back again.

I got it checked and it was nothing - pretty common apparently.

I also have a blue (yes blue) mole on my back. Its very bizarre. Again got it checked and it was nothing. The GP actually thinks it changed colour from fake tan...!

Glad they dont seem concerned by it. Well done for getting it checked. Its always worth it to put your mind at ease.