How To Know If You Have Breast Cancer?
Early Detection Saves Lives
The Philippines has the highest number of breast cancer cases in Asia. We are also among the ten countries with the highest rates of breast cancer. One in every 13 Filipino women is expected to have breast cancer.
Breast cancer is still the most common form of cancer in women. It accounts for 28% of the total cancer cases in women. One in four who has had cancer will die within five years and at least 40% will die ten years after having it.
But despite this, still do not be too scared and worried because breast cancer can be prevented and treated. It is important that you know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer so that you can see a doctor right away if you suspect you have breast cancer.
Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer - this is the most common early sign of breast cancer
The lump does not shrink or disappear even if the woman has a monthly visit
The lump is attached to the skin or chest wall and does not move
The lump is hard, irregular in shape and strange to those around this part of the breast
There is pain when the lump is squeezed or touched
Swollen armpit
Small and hard lumps on the left side. This is a sign that breast cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. You will also feel pain when these lumps are squeezed or touched.
Changes in breast shape and size
Breast skin can become thick and dimpling. Orange / sunkist skin looks like breast cancer affected by cancer. This is why this signal is called peau d'orange
Orange peel
There is redness, swelling and a warmer feeling in the breast. This is a sign of inflammatory breast cancer.
May feel itchy breasts or nipples. Itching does not go away with the use of ointments, creams or other itching medications.
Nipple changes
The nipple may enter the skin (inverted). Normal nipples that suddenly withdraw or go in should be seen immediately by a doctor.
Having fluid coming out of the nipple. The discharge of fluid mixed with blood from the nipple even when it is not squeezed is a sign of cancer.
Peeling and injuring the nipple can also be seen in some types of breast cancer (Paget disease of the nipple)
Breast Exam To Find Out If There Is Breast Cancer
Visit your doctors if you notice any of the signs and symptoms mentioned above. There are various methods and tests that a doctor will perform to determine if a patient has breast cancer or not.
Breast cancer usually has no signs or symptoms, especially if it is in its early stages. So it is important to see a doctor and undergo tests such as mammography because it can show if a person has breast cancer even if there are no signs or symptoms.
Physical Exam
The doctor will look at your breasts, the skin of the breast, the nipple if there is a problem or fluid coming out. The doctor will touch and squeeze the breast and armpit to feel if there is a lump.
Medical History
The doctor will ask some questions about the drugs currently being taken, diseases of relatives because breast cancer is often connected to genes and is inherited from family members. It is important to tell your doctor if you have a relative who has had breast cancer.
Mammogram
This is x-ray imaging of the breast so that the doctor can see if the tumor is benign (not cancer) or malignant mass (cancer). A mammogram in the Philippines costs 1000-2000 pesos depending on the hospital you are going to.
Ultrasound
It uses ultrasonic sound waves to detect breast tissue.
Biopsy
A small amount of tissue is removed from the breast and doctors will examine it to see if it is cancerous or not
Breast Self-Examination
Breast Self-Examination
1. Lie down and place your left hand under your head. Using his right hand, touch and rub your left breast. Using the three middle fingers (index finger, middle finger and index finger), gently stroke your breast and observe for a lump. Use different emphasis on breast augmentation. Be sure to dig and observe the entire breast from the collarbone to the ribs under the breast. Swap hands and do this on the right breast.
2. Look in a mirror, place your two hands on your hips and look at your breasts. Observe for lumps, changes in size and shape, swelling or dimpling of the breast skin.
3. Raise one hand and grasp and observe your armpit if there is a lump.
4. Squeeze your nipple slowly with your thumb and forefinger. Tell your doctor if you notice any fluid coming out of your nipple and if there is a lump in your breast.
Don't even dare. If you have any of the signs and symptoms mentioned above go to the nearest hospital or clinic and consult a doctor. There is a proper treatment to prevent breast cancer. Do not be afraid because it is easier to treat if it is known and treated sooner.
