Breast Pain As A Warning Sign
It is very common for those experiencing breast pain to be concerned that it is a symptom of breast cancer. Of course this may be the case, but there really is no need to be concerned, the best thing to do is to get it checked by your doctor as soon as you can, and get a mammogram done. This will help your doctor to know if there are any lumps in your breast that do need to be checked out.
It is very important to be sure to note all your symptoms of breast pain to your doctor. While you are experiencing these pains, make a note of them. Where is the pain? On a scale of 1 to 10, how intense is the pain? How long does the pain last? Is it a throbbing pain or a sharp pain? While you might think you'd remember these things, it is better to write them down while experiencing them to be sure you are accurate.
If you are experiencing breast pain, don't think that you are all alone. Research indicates that as many as 10% of women experience pain in their breasts that ranges from moderate to severe, for more than five days out of a month. These pains can even last throughout a women's menstrual period. These pains are generally experienced more often in younger women, but can be experienced by women of all ages.
As you might expect, many women who experience breast pain fear that they have may have developed breast cancer. It is wise to have regular breast exams by your physician to set your mind at ease. You can also do a self-assessment, in which you check your breasts for any abnormalities yourself. You can learn how to do this by checking online or asking your physician to show you.
You will be glad to hear that cancer is usually not the cause of breast pain. Several factors may contribute to breast pain. Reproductive hormones are the most common cause. Many women experience breast pain and tenderness during their monthly menstrual cycle. Usually both breasts are affected when this is the cause.
It is evident that breast pain can have a variety of causes. If you have consulted with your physician to be sure that the pain is not the result of any serious condition, there are a few things you can do to relieve breast pain. The easiest thing to do is to take a non-prescription pain medication. Often this will resolve the problem. Possibly a bra that offers more support would be helpful too.
You might worry about cancer when you feel breast pain. It is very important to note all your symptoms: Where is the pain, how long does the pain last, is it a throbbing or a sharp pain. Write it down while experiencing them to be accurate. Many women worry that the pain in their breasts could be cancer. It is rare that pain in the breast is a symptom of cancer. There are a variety of possible reasons for pain in the breast. The mammogram will give your doctor a chance to examine your breast for lumps or masses. You can also perform self assessment breast exams.
Published August 30th, 2008