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Early Detection Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms. Learn more about different ways to increase chances for early detection. Signs and Symptoms Many people have different symptoms and some may not experience any symptoms at all. Most people who have symptoms will initially notice only one or two, and the presence of these symptoms doesn’t automatically mean that you have breast cancer. Some symptoms to look out for are : A new lump in the breast or armpit Thickening or swelling in area of the breast Irritation of breast skin Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast Pain in the nipple area Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood Any change in the size or the shape of the breast Pain in any area of the breast You will be able to easily identify any changes in your breasts by doing monthly self-exams. If you notice any unusual changes, be sure to contact your doctor right away . Breast Exams Breast exams are performed by checking the breasts for signs and symptoms of the disease. A breast self-exam is an early detection tool with the use of physical and visual examinations of the breast and gets you familiarized with the way your breasts normally look and feel. Self-exams at least once a month will help you identify any changes such as a new lump or skin changes. This exam can be performed while standing in a mirror or lying down and using three fingers to press firmly on the breast and armpit area. Any changes that are discovered should be reported to your doctor as soon as possible. A clinical breast exam is performed by a healthcare professional that is trained to recognize different types of abnormalities and warning signs. This is another important early detection tool because a professional may notice a spot on the breast that fails to register as a warning in the patient. Mammograms A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast that allows a specialist to examine breast tissue. The breast is exposed to a small dose of ionizing radiation that produces an image of the breast tissue. Mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early so it’ll be easier to treat before it gets big enough to feel symptoms. Regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. Mammograms are done by standing in front of a machine. The specialist will place your breast on a plastic plate and another plate will firmly press down on your breast from above. The plates will flatten the breast to hold it still while the x-ray is being taken. These steps are repeated to make a side view and the other breast will be done the same way. Having a mammogram may be uncomfortable and some find it painful, but it only takes a few moments and the discomfort is over. It’s best not to get a mammogram before or during your period because your breasts may be tender or swollen. It’s also best not to wear any deodorant, perfumes, or powders because these products can show up as white spots on the x-rays. You will need to undress from the waist up when getting a mammogram, so wear a top and bottom is advised than wearing a dress.

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Treatment Breast cancer is generally treated with many different options but most treatment plans include more than one type of treatment. Choosing the right treatment for you may be difficult. Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits of each treatment and their side effects. Treatment Options Surgery : An operation where doctors cut out the cancer and is the most common treatment. Surgical options include a lumpectomy, partial mastectomy, radical mastectomy, and reconstruction. Chemotherapy : Uses a combination of medicine that shrinks or kills the cancer cells. These medicines can be given orally by pills or through the veins to travel in the bloodstream. Radiation Therapy : An operation that uses high energy rays to kill the cancer cells. It only affects the part of the body that is being treated and can also be used to destroy other cells that remained after surgery. Hormonal Therapy : Blocks the cancer cells from getting the estrogen and progesterone it needs to grow. Biological Therapy : Works with your body’s immune system to help fight cancer cells or to control the side effects from other cancer treatments. Targeted Therapy : This treatment attacks specific cancer cells without harming the normal cells. This method is commonly used in combination with chemotherapy. Targeted drugs tend to have less severe side effects than standard chemotherapy drugs. Follow-Up Care Checkups help ensure that any changes in your health are noted and treated so you’ll need regular checkups after breast cancer treatment. If you had surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, your care team will want to see you every few months and then as time goes on, your appointments will be more spaced out. Checkups also help detect health problems that may result from treatment such as lingering side effects or if you’re experiencing any new side effects. Checkups include an examination of the neck, armpit, and chest area. You should also continue to have regular mammograms , since it’s possible for a new breast cancer to develop. During your follow-up appointments, it’s best to ask your doctor about the probability of developing a recurrence within the breast tissue or a distant recurrence in another organ based on the treatments you had.

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