Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer to get an early diagnosis and treatment, improving your chances of survival.
The most common symptom of breast cancer is a lump in the breast or armpit. However, other early symptoms of breast cancer are often ignored. These symptoms can include:
1. Changes in the size or shape of your breast:
This could mean that the breast is becoming larger or smaller or that the shape of the breast is changing.
2. Changes in the skin of your breast, such as dimpling, puckering, or redness:
Dimpling is when the skin of the breast develops small dents or indentations. Puckering is when the skin of the breast develops small folds or ridges. Redness is when the skin of the breast becomes red, inflamed, or irritated.
3. Nipple changes, such as pulling in, dimpling, or discharge:
Nipple pulling in is when the nipple starts to turn inward or flatten. Nipple dimpling is when the skin around the nipple starts to indent or pucker. Nipple discharge is when fluid leaks from the nipple other than breast milk.
4. Pain in your breast or armpit:
This pain may be constant or intermittent, and it may be mild or severe.
5. Thickening or swelling of part of your breast:
This may be noticeable when you compare your breasts to each other, or it may be something you only notice when you feel your breasts.
6. Feeling a warm spot in your breast:
This warm spot may be caused by inflammation or increased blood flow.
It’s important to remember that not all breast lumps are cancerous. However, it’s always best to have any lump checked by a doctor to rule out cancer.
If you have any concerns about your breast health, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can make a big difference in your chances of survival.
Here are some tips for self-examining your breasts:
Do a breast self-exam once a month. The best time to self-examine is a few days after your period ends.
Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look for any changes in your breasts’ size, shape, or color. Look for any dimpling, puckering, or redness of the skin. Raise your arms above your head and look for any changes.
Lie down on your back with your right arm under your head. Use your left hand to feel your right breast. Use a firm, circular motion to move your fingers over your entire breast. Pay attention to any lumps, bumps, or changes in texture. Repeat the process on your left breast.
If you find any changes in your breasts, don’t panic. Just make an appointment to see your doctor right away.
Early detection of breast cancer is key to survival. By knowing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and doing regular self-exams, you can help catch breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable.
If you have any questions or concerns about your breast health, please talk to your doctor. They can help you understand your risk of breast cancer and develop a plan for early detection.
