Breast Cancer Signs: Early Diagnosis Is Important
Breast cancer affects women of all ages. That is why it is important to know about breast cancer signs and what action should be taken if you experience any of them. While you may experience symptoms of breast cancer, only a doctor can make the diagnosis that for sure. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possibe.
A lump is often the first breast cancer sign a woman might experience. This lump will have a different feeling because of its surrounding tissue. Since a lump is one of the first breast cancer signs to appear, women should habitually perform self exams to increase their chance of early detection. The earlier it is found, the greater the chance of beating breast cancer.
There are several other breast cancer signs to be aware of, other than a lump. If your breast changes size or shape this is something to take note of and inform your doctor of right away. You might also have some dimpling of the skin on your breast. If your nipples become inverted or you have discharge from a single nipple, these are other things you should keep your doctor informed of.
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 other symptoms can signal breast cancer. If you have lost weight quickly and there is no reason for it, that may be a symptom. Other symptoms are unexplained fever and chills lasting more than a few days, pain in the joints or bones, and jaundice. Sometimes there are neurological symptoms as well. So all of these are things you should watch out for.
It is important to remember that most symptoms associated with breast cancer typically have additional causes besides breast cancer. So having the symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean having the cancer. Of course, the symptoms should be taken very seriously, and follow up with a physician should not be delayed. The point is that there is no reason for undue alarm, just swift action.
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. 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. One of the best factors in beating breast cancer is early detection. One of the best methods of detection is the monthly self exam.
- Stephan Grindley
:: Oct.08.2008 :: Uncategorized ::
