Breast Cancer Symptoms And What To Do About Them
No matter how old a woman is she can become a breast cancer victim. This is why it is crucial to know about breast cancer symptoms and what to do if you have any of them. Although specific symptoms can indicate breast cancer your doctor is the only one who can certainly let you know. If you believe you may have some of the following breast cancer symptoms it makes sense to schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
A lump in the breast is usually the first sign of breast cancer. The lump will have a different feel than the regular tissue surrounding it in the breast. Since this is the first sign of breast cancer a regular self exam is a crucial habit to engage in, and can have a significant impact on early detection. Mammograms are another important step to undertake regularly. The earlier that breast cancer is detected the greater the likelihood is that you will survive this terrible disease.
Besides a lump, there are other signs of breast cancer to be on the lookout for. Changes in breast size or shape should be brought to your doctor's attention without delay. Dimpling of the skin around the breast is another sign of concern. Nipples becoming inverted or expressing discharge are other signs that your doctor should be made aware of immediately.
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.
Sometimes there are other symptoms that can point to breast cancer. Often an inexplicable and rapid loss of weight can be a symptom of breast cancer. Unexplainable fever and chills that persist for more than a few days are also a possible symptom. Pain in the bones or joints, or jaundice, or a variety of neurological symptoms can sometimes also be symptoms and because of these they should be watched out for.
You must always remember that not all symptoms of breast cancer result in the disease. But at the same time you should not become careless about it. It is just that till something is confirmed by the doctor there is no need to panic. What is necessary is to take appointments and get yourself examined.
It is imperative that women of all ages stay up to date with breast cancer symptoms because women both young and old are susceptible. However, since there are many symptoms which may point to breast cancer, you should check with your doctor for confirmation. If you believe yourself to have any breast cancer signs or symptoms, you would be well advised to visit your doctor as soon as possible. It's also important to get in the habit of doing a regular self exam, as well as having periodic mammograms on the schedule your doctor advises.
Published August 30th, 2008