When should you see a doctor about a skin sore that does not heal?

Slow healing can follow friction, an injury, infection, poor circulation or a skin condition. Actinic keratosis may appear as a rough, scaly patch, while basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell skin cancer can present as a sore, crusted area or a spot that bleeds and returns. These appearances overlap with non-cancerous problems, so visual inspection alone cannot provide a diagnosis.

Keep the area clean, cover it with a simple dressing if it rubs against clothing, and avoid picking, burning or using strong treatments without advice. Note when it began, whether it has changed, and any bleeding, discharge, tenderness or altered sensation. Bring a list of creams and medicines, and mention previous skin problems, immune conditions or treatment that may slow healing. A clinician may examine nearby skin and lymph nodes and may recommend a sample.

Seek urgent care for spreading redness, increasing warmth, pus, fever, severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding or rapidly worsening swelling. Arrange a prompt appointment for a sore that repeatedly opens, develops a raised edge, changes colour, or sits on a sun-exposed area. A sore that seems small still deserves review if it persists or keeps returning.

Ask what the sore may represent, whether a sample is needed, how to dress it, and which changes require earlier review. Ask when you should expect the examination or test result and whether a skin specialist should see you.