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When you go to a doctor for a specific health issue you are armed with a mental list of symptoms, or have physical indicators that help her to make a diagnosis of your particular concern. Symptoms are one of the primary tools a doctor uses to determine your health problem and how to treat it. Unfortunately, breast cancer symptoms are often overlooked or ignored by women who are oblivious to the seriousness of the disease, or think that breast cancer happens to other people – not them.
While there are several early signs of breast cancer, these are not readily apparent as the earliest stages of breast cancer are usually without pain or discomfort. If you aren't observant of your own body and proactive in your personal well-being you may miss the early warning signs that something is wrong.
Following is a list of symptoms that are associated with the diagnosis of breast cancer. If you suffer from any of these symptoms, you should immediately see your health care provider as these are early signs of breast cancer.
1. A lump or mass in the breast tissue.
2. Breast pain or heaviness in the breast.
3. Changes to the breast, such as thickening, swelling, and redness.
4. A discharge, erosion, inversion, or tenderness of the nipple.
5. A painful burning sensation in the breast that causes the affected breast area to feel hot to the touch.
6. A change in the contour of the breast.
In order to recognize any of the above symptoms you should establish a monthly routine of self breast examination starting with simply looking at yourself in the mirror. Raise your arms and examine your armpits as well. Becoming familiar with your body will enable you to quickly notice when something is abnormal.
At least once monthly examine your breasts, feeling for lumps, thickness, abnormalities or any areas of tenderness. This is important as 70% of all breast cancers are discovered through self examination. Sometimes, however you cannot feel any lumps and cancer may still be present. That is why it is necessary to make an annual mammogram a part of your health care regime.
With regular self examination, an annual mammogram and an annual physical you will be able to recognize the early warning signs of breast cancer. By becoming familiar with your body and its functions you will notice any changes, and you will know if such changes are normal or abnormal. For example, if you have breast pain or heaviness each month when you are ovulating, there is no reason for concern as you know this occurs regularly. If pain or heaviness persists after the cycle is completed, however, see your doctor immediately.
While the words “you have breast cancer” strikes fear into the heart of every woman who hears them, it doesn’t have to be a statement of doom. If you are aware of the early signs of breast cancer and follow the suggestions outlined above you can triumph over the disease.
DISCLAIMER: The information and products on this website are in no way intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any cancer related illness, disease or condition whatsoever. Anyone looking for medical advice needs to contact a Licensed physician. Please read the disclaimer below for more information
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