Breast Cancer Signs: What All Women Should Know
Women of every age can fall victim to breast cancer. For this reason it is important to informed of breast cancer signs and what you should do in the event that you experience one of them. While certain symptoms can be indicative of breast cancer only your doctor can tell you for sure. If you think you might have any of the following symptoms it is wise to make an appointment with your doctor as soon as you can.
The first of breast cancer signs is usually a lump. This lump will feel different than the tissue that surrounds it. Because this is the first of the breast cancer signs it's important to get in the habit of doing a regular self exam. This can go a long way to early detection. The earlier it is detected the higher your chances of beating this terrible disease.
Even if you do not see a lump, there are several other breast cancer signs that you must be aware of. One of the things that you must take note of is if your breast changes size and or shape. Another thing that you should mention to your doctor is that you are noticing a discharge from a single nipple or a dimpling of the skin of the breast.
Paget's disease of the breast is a disease that can sometimes indicate breast cancer. It causes skin changes in the breast such as redness and flakes on the nipple of the breast that is affected. As it advances you might also experience symptoms like itchy skin on the breast, more sensitivity than usual, burning and pain. As always, it is important to let your doctor know if you think you might suffer from this disease.
Occasionally other symptoms can be a sign of breast cancer. Unexplained and rapid weight loss is sometimes caused by breast cancer. Unexplained fever and chills that do not go away within a few days can also be a symptom. Bone or joint pains, jaundice and different neurological symptoms can occasionally be signs as well so keep an eye on those things.
Remember that although you may experience certain symptoms, more than likely breast cancer will not be the cause. But you should still take any symptoms seriously. Until you consult with your physician, you should not become unduly upset. Just make an appointment so that your doctor can determine if there is a possible problem and if so, how to proceed.
Breast cancer can strike at any age. Therefore, knowing the breast cancer signs and symptoms is very important, in addition to the actions you should take to catch cancer early in its course. One of the best factors in beating breast cancer is early detection. One of the best methods of detection is the monthly self exam. A lump in the breast is one of the signs of breast cancer. Only your doctor can determine for certain whether any signs or symptoms you are experiencing are being caused by cancer. It is imperative to contact your physician immediately in the event you discover any of these signs.
Published August 30th, 2008