Winter is typically associated with cold temperatures, snow, and holiday cheer. As the winter months approach, it’s important to not only protect your skin from the cold but also to be aware of the potential risks of skin cancer. As your trusted ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors, the team at Alpine Ear, Nose & Throat wants to remind you to be vigilant in monitoring any changes in your skin and to schedule regular check-ups with our Northern Colorado ENT specialists. To learn more, continue on and schedule an appointment!
Winter Risk Factors For Skin Cancer
Cold weather can dry out the skin, leading to cracking and irritation. This can increase the risk of skin cancer as it makes the skin more susceptible to damage from UV rays.
During the winter, we tend to spend more time indoors and have less exposure to sunlight. However, it’s important to remember that UV rays can still penetrate windows and cause damage to our skin. Additionally, winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding can expose the skin to prolonged UV rays, as the sun reflects off of the snow. It is important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing while participating in these activities.
Skin Cancer Signs & Symptoms
It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of skin cancer, such as changes in the size or color of a mole, or the development of new moles. Look out for any new or changing moles, discoloration, or growths on your skin. It’s also important to be aware of any persistent sores or itchy patches that don’t heal easily.
Skin Cancer Prevention
In addition to regularly checking your skin, protect yourself from UV rays by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting your time in the sun. However, if you detect any changes in your skin, schedule an appointment to visit one of our ENT specialists to have it checked out. Early detection and treatment can greatly increase the chances of a successful outcome.
Skin Cancer Treatment
Our ENT doctors can treat skin cancer by utilizing a variety of treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The Alpine ENT team will work closely with each patient to determine the best treatment plan and closely monitor their progress throughout the treatment process. The type and size of the cancer, the patient’s age, and overall health will be taken into consideration when deciding on the best course of treatment.
We are committed to providing the highest quality patient care and strongly believe in the patient-physician relationship. If you have any concerns about your skin or any other ear, nose, and throat-related issues, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with the Alpine Ear, Nose, & Throat team.
Call Alpine Ear, Nose & Throat at for more information or to schedule an appointment.