Breast Cancer awareness is one of the best ways to honour the lives and experiences of those who have experienced this dreaded disease.
You must keep in mind the signs and symptoms so that you can recognise what may be happening and how to help in the future.
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, you want to be able to share your feelings with friends and family as well as educate the public on the importance of early detection.
These tips on knowing the signs will be able to help you and your loved ones feel more comfortable and protected at this difficult time.
Signs of Breast Cancer
The signs and symptoms of breast cancer are pretty much the same for all types of breast cancers.
Lump or Pain:
If you have been diagnosed, the first thing that will likely occur is a lump or sore in one’s breast. It may be a result of either cancer or non-cancerous growth.
If one has been experiencing pain or soreness in one’s breasts, this may also indicate that cancer has already formed.
The presence of a tumour in the breast tissue is not necessarily the sign of cancer.
Shape:
When there are changes in the size or shape of your breasts or other areas of your body, this is another symptom that will be able to provide you with clues that you may have this kind of cancer.
In particular, if you notice any sudden or unusual changes, then you must consult a physician. Several different factors can make this symptom more noticeable, including those associated with breast cancer.
For instance, if there is a sudden increase in the size of your breasts or if your breasts suddenly change shape, then there may be a tumour.
It is not always a guarantee, however, and a tumour can grow and develop without causing a noticeable change. However, these changes may be a warning sign of a dangerous illness.
Colour and Feel:
Another common sign of a possible diagnosis of breast cancer is if there are changes in the colour of the skin or the texture.
If your skin has changed significantly, it may be crucial to take note of these changes for further evaluation. You must note any changes in the colour of the hair as well.
If your hair begins to appear lighter or darker than it used to or if there is a change in the amount of hair that grows, then this may be an indication that a cancerous growth has developed.
Size:
Another way to determine if you are experiencing a symptom of breast cancer is to note changes in the size of the breasts.
If you notice that your breasts seem to be larger or smaller than usual or if there is some pain that you are experiencing, then you may be experiencing a symptom of this kind of cancer.
It is also important to note any sores, rashes, or bleeding that you may have that may be present in your breasts.
If the area surrounding the nipple is red, then this could be another sign that you may have this kind of cancer.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Symptoms of this condition may also include fatigue, difficulty in swallowing or speaking, and loss of balance.
Other symptoms include a change in weight, a decreased appetite, or unexplained fever, and changes in bowel habits.
How to be careful and aware?
As a precaution against illness like cancer, it is crucial to keep yourselves informed and aware at all times.
There are several ways in which you may be able to be better informed.
Breast Cancer awareness is something that many women choose to work towards by participating in many different activities throughout the month that focus on this cause.
Many women will volunteer to go on Breast Cancer awareness walks or runs.
Others will choose to make donations in support of research and awareness.
Besides, many other types of fundraisers are held by local groups and individuals, as well.
Because of the importance of being aware of the symptoms of cancer, you will want to take care of yourself. Regular check-ups and screenings are mandatory so that you can get tested for this disease.
These tests can detect early signs and symptoms and allow you to live a fuller, longer life.
Methods of Diagnosis
If one is a victim of this cancer, they will have to undergo a test called a mammogram.
This test determines if there are abnormalities in one’s breast tissue.
After detecting abnormalities in one’s breast tissue, a test called a CT scan takes place to see if a cancerous tumour has spread through the ducts.
Depending on how early on in the process of the cancerous condition one has detected, the patient will have to participate in several tests.
These tests include an ultrasound, MRI, ultrasound, and a blood test.
A biopsy is performed on the patient to ensure the presence of any cancerous cells.
Once the diagnosis is declared stating that the patient has breast cancer, then several treatments are initiated.
The treatments may include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
