Breast Cancer Awareness

From Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization http://www.y-me.org Knowing your body and your breasts will help you know when you are experiencing something that is abnormal for you. For most women, their breasts change in size during the menstrual cycle, and it is normal to feel tenderness and other standard cyclical changes. Lumpiness is also a very common during the menstrual stages. DO NOT PANIC! 80% of lumps found ARE NOT cancerous. If you perform breast self-exam, it may feel strange at first because it can be difficult to tell what is normal for your breasts. Over time, you will get to know what is normal for you. If you ever find a lump, you'll be able to tell it is new right away. Finding a Lump When you notice a lump that is different in size, consistency or is new, it’s important to take notice. If it persists even after one menstrual cycle, a physician should evaluate it. If you are post-menopausal, you should make an appointment to see your doctor right away. Additionally, if you notice any changes in your nipple or breast texture, or if you experience prolonged itching or swollen underarm lymph nodes, discuss them with your doctor. Pain is not usually associated with breast cancer and is more likely to be related to the presence of a cyst or your body’s reaction to your menstrual cycle. If you notice any unusual pain, however, it’s a good idea to contact your doctor immediately. Finding Nipple Discharge If you notice nipple discharge it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your physician. It’s especially important to see your doctor if the discharge is persistent. For many women, having nipple discharge is a normal part of life, although most don't talk about it. Milky nipple discharge that is from both breasts is most likely related to hormonal changes. This discharge can be a variety of colors, and mostly occurs bilaterally (in both breasts). It is important to know that squeezing your nipples encourages discharge to occur. The amount of discharge that women have is usually very small, and can happen at any time during the menstrual cycle. The general rule is that most breast symptoms, when they are present in both breasts at the same time or represent a change in the hormonal cycle are not considered to be related to cancer. The sign that something may be problematic includes discharge that is persistent (without squeezing the nipples), spontaneous, and is in one breast and not the other. A bloody discharge from the breast is also an important symptom that should be evaluated by a physician.