There’s Dimpling On Your Breast Skin
Noticing some dimpling in the skin of one of your breasts might not seem like a big deal, but it could be a sign of breast cancer, says the Mayo Clinic. The issuewhich is called peau d’ orange, due to its resemblance of the texture of an orange peelcould be a sign of a more invasive type of breast cancer.
How To Check Your Breasts
Theres no special way to check your breasts and you do not need any training.
Checking your breasts is as easy as TLC:
- Touch your breasts: can you feel anything new or unusual?
- Look for changes: does anything look different to you?
- Check any new or unusual changes with a GP
Everyone will have their own way of touching and looking for changes.
Get used to checking regularly and be aware of anything thats new or different for you.
Check your whole breast area, including up to your collarbone and armpits.
Getting A Breast Biopsy
In a breast biopsy, the doctor takes out small pieces of breast tissue to check them for cancer cells. A biopsy is the only way to tell for sure if you have breast cancer.
There are many types of biopsies. Ask your doctor what kind you will need. Each type has risks and benefits. The choice of which type to use depends on your own case.
Sometimes, surgery is needed to take out all or part of the lump to find out if its cancer. This is often done in a hospital using local anesthesia . You might also be given medicine to make you sleepy.
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Coping With Breast Pain
Breast pain can be very distressing, and many women worry that they may have breast cancer. In most cases breast pain will be the result of normal changes in the breasts.
Even though you may feel reassured that your breast pain is normal and you dont have breast cancer, the pain often remains. This can be upsetting, especially if your specialist cant tell you the exact cause of your breast pain.
Women affected by breast pain may feel many different emotions, including fear, frustration or helplessness. Although understanding more about your breast pain wont cure it, it may help you to get back some control over your life.
Having severe, long-lasting breast pain can sometimes affect a womans daily activities which may cause anxiety and, for some, depression. However, this isnt the case for most women and their pain can be helped or managed.
Having breast pain doesnt increase your risk of breast cancer. However, its still important to be breast aware and go back to your GP if the pain increases or changes, or you notice any other changes in your breasts.
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Invasive Breast Cancer Symptoms
Most breast cancers start in the ducts, or the tubes that carry milk to the nipple, or in the lobules, the little clusters of sacs where breast milk is made. Invasive breast cancer refers to breast cancer that spreads from the original site to other areas of the breast, the lymph nodes or elsewhere in the body. In these cancers that form in the ducts or lobules, invasive ductal carcinoma or invasive lobular carcinoma , the cancer spreads from the ducts or lobules to other tissue. Depending on the stage, you may notice symptoms.
Invasive breast cancer symptoms may include:
- A lump or mass in the breast
- Swelling of all or part of the breast, even if no lump is felt
- Skin irritation or dimpling
- A lump or swelling in the underarm lymph nodes
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Your Nipple Is Turning Inward
If your nipple is starting to turn inward when it wasn’t retracted before, it could be a sign of inflammatory breast cancer, which is much more aggressive than other types of breast cancer, says the American Cancer Society. Because of that, you should book an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible to discuss any concerning changes.
How Much Do Anastrozole And Exemestane Lower The Risk Of Breast Cancer
Studies have shown that both anastrozole and exemestane can lower the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women who are at increased risk of the disease.
In one large study, taking anastrozole for five years lowered the risk of developing estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer by 53 percent. In another study, taking exemestane for three years lowered the risk of developing estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer by 65 percent.
The most common side effects seen with anastrazole and exemestane are joint pains, decreased bone density, and symptoms of menopause .
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 12/31/2018.
References
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Where Can I Go To Get Screened
You can get screened for breast cancer at a clinic, hospital, or doctors office. If you want to be screened for breast cancer, call your doctors office. They can help you schedule an appointment.
Most health insurance plans are required to cover screening mammograms every one to two years for women beginning at age 40 with no out-of-pocket cost .
Are you worried about the cost? CDC offers free or low-cost mammograms. Find out if you qualify.
What Are The Basics Of Orage Cancer
caused by cells destroying themselves when they die uncontrollably and spreading within tissues. Cancer is caused by changes in DNA caused by the loss of cells. As a result of cancers most are caused by alterations in DNA, which are called genes. It is also called genetic change or change in structure.
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I Had Fevers And Difficulty Breastfeeding
I was misdiagnosed with mastitis twice because I had high fevers and trouble breastfeeding. It turned out to be cancer. Tumors were blocking the milk ducts. I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at age 32, five weeks after I had my first child. It didnt look like mastitis at all. So many people told me 100% chance it is nothing. No one thought of any alternative, however, until multiple courses of treatment failed.
Melissa Thompson, healthcare policy advocate, Stamford, Connecticut
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When The One You Love Is Sick
It is incredibly important for patients to have a strong support system when going through what is most likely one of the hardest times of their lives, and just being there can do wonders. This is something Casey DeSantis can surely attest to when it comes to her husbands support.
Gov. DeSantis has been there for his wife every step of the way. In fact, in January, he fired back at critics who accused him of missing public appearances, disclosing that he accompanied his wife as she received chemotherapy treatment.
When people try to say that thats a vacation I think anyone thats gone through those treatments would not agree that chemotherapy is a vacation, the governor said on Hannity.
Illness, including cancer, is also an experience that can surely take an emotional toll on both the patient and the spouse, as well as their relationship.
This is something actress and melanoma survivor Jill Kargman can also attest to as cancer was a true test of her relationships strength. In a previous interview with SurvivorNet, Kargman said the disease is a great way to find out if youre with the love of your life or a shithead.
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How Do You Explain Cancer To A Child
Asking kids about your behavior a day or two before engaging with them will help you prepare your response. They are not at fault and the disease is not contagious. Ill be looking after them regardless of the fact that you cant always be there for them. Keep a steady watch on your kids so they can feel what they are doing.
Talk To Your Doctor About Your Medications
Some medications, like birth control and hormone therapy, may increase your risk for breast cancer. But your doctor can work with you to limit your risks if you need these medications. Heres what you should know:
- Birth control. Research suggests that birth control pills can increase your risk of breast cancer by 20-30% while you take them and for about 10 years after you stop. But because your chance of breast cancer is low during your childbearing years, the benefits of birth control likely outweigh the risk of taking them.
- Hormone therapy. There are two types of hormone therapy to help you manage menopause symptoms. One option uses a combination of progesterone and estrogen. The other only uses estrogen. Using progesterone leads to a higher chance of breast cancer in post-menopausal women. But the estrogen-only therapy for menopause does not appear to increase your risks unless its used for more than 10 years.
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Symptoms Of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer can have several symptoms, but the first noticeable symptom is usually a lump or area of thickened breast tissue.
Most breast lumps are not cancerous, but it’s always best to have them checked by a doctor.
You should also see a GP if you notice any of these symptoms:
- a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
- discharge from either of your nipples, which may be streaked with blood
- a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
- dimpling on the skin of your breasts
- a rash on or around your nipple
- a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast
Breast pain is not usually a symptom of breast cancer.
Find out more about the symptoms of breast cancer.
Be Aware Of The Signs And Symptoms Of Breast Cancer
Pay attention to your breasts. Do you notice lumps or thickening in your breast or underarm area? Is one of your nipples turning in or is there blood or fluid coming from it? Is the skin on your breast flaking? These are some possible signs and symptoms of breast cancer but there can be others.
So if you notice any changes in your breasts or nipples, its a worth seeing your primary care doctor. Theyll help identify what you should do next whether thats getting a diagnostic mammogram or something else.
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What Are The Statistics On Male Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is rare in men but typically has a significantly worse outcome. This is partially related to the often late diagnosis of male breast cancer, when the cancer has already spread.
Symptoms are similar to the symptoms in women, with the most common symptom being a lump or change in skin of the breast tissue or nipple discharge. Although it can occur at any age, male breast cancer usually occurs in men over 60 years of age.
How To Handle The Warning Signs
Having any of these signs or symptoms does not mean you have breast cancer. Cysts, infections and other non-cancerous breast conditions also may cause symptoms.
However, do call your doctor right away if you have symptoms or any time you notice unusual changes in how your breasts look or feel. Dont wait and see if the changes go away. Its important to find out what is causing these changes. If you do have breast cancer, early detection can make treatment easier and more successful.
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Who Is A Candidate For Brca Gene Testing
This should be discussed with your health care provider or treatment team as this information is frequently updated. Guidelines for testing may include
- a personal history of breast cancer diagnosis at a young age, bilateral breast cancer, breast and ovarian cancer diagnosis, or a personal history of ovarian cancer
- family history of breast cancer at a young age or ovarian cancer and a personal history of breast cancer
- family member with bilateral breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or both breast and ovarian cancer
- relative with a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation and
- a male relative with breast cancer.
What Is Breast Cancer Staging
To determine the stage of your cancer, doctors look at how large your tumor is, where it is, and if it has spread. They also look at your medical history, physical exams, diagnostic tests, and tests of your tumor and lymph nodes.
- Early-stage breast cancer includes stages 0, I, II and IIIA .
- In stage 0, there are abnormal cells in the ducts or lobes of the breast. They have not broken through the wall of the duct or spread.
- In stages I, II, and IIIA, there is a tumor. It may have spread to lymph nodes under the arm, but it has not spread anywhere else.
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Signs To Know If You Have Breast Cancer
By | Submitted On November 22, 2008
Knowing your body well will help you know normal changes and changes that need medical attention. Having regular check ups gives you great defense against cancer.
The Following Are Some Symptoms of Cancer To look for:
– Unfamiliar pain in your breast or in the armpit – It’s unusual in the sense that the pain is different from how you feel when you have monthly periods. Also if you feel it in one rather than both breasts. If it is not caused by hormonal changes then go to the doctor for a check up.
– A lump or a tumor in the breast or in the armpit – Sometimes is caused by hormonal changes but if it persists don’t wait before it is too late. Go for screening and know the cause of swelling.
– A change in size or shape of the mature breast – If you notice any changes in a mature breast more so if it’s occurring on one breast only. That is a cause for alarm to seek health professional for cancer breast examination.
– Fluid other than milk leaking from the nipple – During your menopause you may experience non-blood leakage from nipples of both breasts due to hormonal changes. But if it occurs on one breast only, then you need medical attention.
– Changes of color, shape or texture of the nipple – If you notice puckers, a rash on the nipple skin or darker skin that around the nipple. And after using some cream still doesn’t help, then don’t waste more time consult doctor when still in its curable stage.
Should I Tell My Daughter I Have Been To Let My Daughter I Have Cancer
Cancer does not have to be an anonymous problem. Dont feel hesitant to use the name cancer when talking to your children. The reality that young people sense is only reinforcing their worries which only compounds their fears. Whether kids are young or old, they sense things being wrong. The language should be very easy to understand.
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Metastatic Breast Cancer Symptoms
Metastatic breast cancer symptoms depend on the part of the body to which the cancer has spread and its stage. Sometimes, metastatic disease may not cause any symptoms.
- If the breast or chest wall is affected, symptoms may include pain, nipple discharge, or a lump or thickening in the breast or underarm.
- If the bones are affected, symptoms may include pain, fractures, constipation or decreased alertness due to high calcium levels.
- If tumors form in the lungs, symptoms may include shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, coughing, chest wall pain or extreme fatigue.
- If the liver is affected, symptoms may include nausea, extreme fatigue, increased abdominal girth, swelling of the feet and hands due to fluid collection and yellowing or itchy skin.
- If breast cancer spreads to the brain or spinal cord and forms tumors, symptoms may include pain, confusion, memory loss, headache, blurred or double vision, difficulty with speech, difficulty with movement or seizures.
Relationships With Friends And Family
Its not always easy to talk about cancer, either for you or your family and friends. You may sense that some people feel awkward around you or avoid you.
Being open about how you feel and what your family and friends can do to help may put them at ease. However, dont be afraid to tell them that you need some time to yourself, if thats what you need.
Want to know more?
- Healthtalkonline: How breast cancer affects families
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The Apollo Cancer Team
The Apollo Cancer Team includes dedicated breast surgeons, Oncoplastic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiologists, psychologists and counsellors. Our Breast Cancer ward includes experienced nurses exclusively for patients post operative care this is complemented by a comprehensive range of advanced facilities for patient care.
How Is Breast Cancer Treated
As in women, treatment for breast cancer in men depends on how big the tumor is and how far it has spread. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. For more information, see the National Cancer Institutes Male Breast Cancer Treatment.external icon
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Do Antiperspirants Or Deodorants Cause Breast Cancer
Research has shown that parabens can build up in breast tissues. However, this study did not show that parabens cause breast cancer or find a link between parabens and deodorant use.
A 2002 study did not show any increased risk for breast cancer in women using an underarm deodorant or antiperspirant. A 2003 study showed an earlier age for breast cancer diagnosis in women who shaved their underarms more frequently and used underarm deodorants.
We need more research to give us the answer about a relationship between breast cancer and underarm deodorants and blade shaving.