Laura Jennings from Leeds would never assume that A nasty spot on her leave is a sign of cancer. “I am quite active and sometimes awkward, so I thought I was kicked into something and I have a bruise under my nail that disappears over time,” said a 40-year-old woman for.
“It certainly didn’t look like something that should worry me, and since it didn’t hurt, I painted it with nail polish and continued as usual,” revealed. But when Laura removed her nail polish, part of the nail fell apart. “I thought,” Well, that’s not good “. But people are still losing their nails on their feet, right?” added.
The British had no idea that she was at the beginning of a difficult journey. It started in April 2022 – At a time when the pandemic still disrupted medical services and limited personal meetings. Since she could not go to the doctor personally, she had a phone consultation and sent photos of her nail.
The doctor diagnosed her nail fungal infection, prescribed an antifungal ointment, and part of her nail for tests. Despite the fact that the results did not show any infection, the doctor assured her to continue the treatment plan. He explained Laura that it could take up to a year for a new nail to grow, so it was not paid that her condition had not improved.
Laura became concerned about Easter in 2023. The nail on her leg was not even better, in fact it looked much worse. “I returned and urged the personal meeting. I thought it had to be removed to grow the new one. The doctor I visited immediately realized it could be something much more serious and He recommended me a dermatologist, ” described.
The specialist diagnosed the woman’s acral lentiginal melanoma (ALM), a rare but aggressive type of skin cancer, which usually occurs under the nails or on the palms of the hands and feet. “It was a shocking diagnosis. I really didn’t know what to think about it. I would never have thought of a spot on the left could be cancer. It is something that should really be taken seriously because it can get worse very quickly, ” She challenged people.
Subsequently, she underwent a biopsy that confirmed the diagnosis. Fortunately, there was no melanoma in a stage that would endanger her life, but still required a quick intervention. “Cancer was in the early stages but it was already necessary to act. The doctors recommended me surgery to remove nail and part of the surrounding tissue to prevent the spread of cancer, ” explains Laura.
After the operation, which was successful, it began to undergo further treatment and regular controls. Today he feels better, but emphasizes the importance of early seeking medical help if you have any unusual changes in your nails or skin. “It’s a warning for all. Never ignore anything that doesn’t suit your body. Even if it may seem like a small problem, It may be a symptom of something serious. And don’t wait too long for the examination, ”she concluded.
