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Your Breast Cancer Concerns
Normal changes and benign breast conditions:
Most breast changes are directly related to developing or ageing breast tissue. These include tenderness/pain, lumps/lumpiness and nipple changes.
However, sometimes changes may be diagnosed as benign breast conditions. For example, breast pain linked to the menstrual cycle is considered normal. When it is severe and long lasting it may require further investigation.
While most changes in the breast will be benign, early detection can mean more effective treatment if cancer is found.
There is no set way to check your breasts, but you should find time to do it on a regular basis.
The breast awareness 5-point code:
- Know what is normal for you.
- Know what changes to look and feel for.
- Look and feel.
- Report any changes to your GP without delay.
- Attend for routine breast screening if you are aged 50 or over.
Changes to be aware of:
- size - if one breast becomes larger, or lower
- nipples - if a nipple becomes inverted (pulled in) or changes position or shape
- rashes - on or around the nipple
- discharge - from one or both nipples
- skin changes - puckering or dimpling
- swelling - under the armpit or around the collarbone (where lymph nodes are) pain - continuous, in one part of the breast or armpit
- lump or thickening - different to the rest of the breast tissue.
Further advice can be obtained from Breast Cancer Care go to their website which includes downloadable PDF's Contact: Breast Cancer Care – Tel 0808 800 6000 or Email: info@breastcancercare.org.uk
PLEASE NOTE: This article is for information only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care and we would always advise you to check with your doctor if you have any concerns about your condition or treatment.
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