Many of us women don't pay much attention to changes in our bodies , do we? Maybe we feel something like a small lump or unusual pain, but we forget about it, thinking, 'It will get better on its own'. However, when it comes to breasts , ignoring even such a small change is not a good thing at all . Because, it can be an early warning sign of breast cancer. Remember, the sooner we detect cancer, the more likely it is to be treated and cured. So let's be aware of this today.
What are the warning signs of breast cancer?
There are several symptoms that can occur with breast cancer. But not everyone will have all of these symptoms. Sometimes, there may be only one symptom. Therefore, it is very important to be aware of this.
Just think, sometimes breast cancer can be present in its early stages without any symptoms . That's why we always tell you to take care of your breasts and get medical checkups.
You can get a clear understanding of these characteristics from the table below.
| Symptom | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| A painless tumor | A lump in the breast or armpit that is usually painless. Many people think that a cancerous lump should hurt, but in the early stages, it is often painless. |
| Lymph node swelling | Swelling of lumps (nodules) in the armpits or around the neck. These may also be painless. |
| Breast pain or heaviness | Feeling unusual pain or heaviness in only one breast. |
| Skin changes | Swelling, redness, thickening of the skin on the breast, pitting like an orange peel, or a skin texture like a coralline. |
| Nipple changes | Nipple retraction, change in nipple shape, or itching or soreness of the skin around the nipple. |
| Nipple discharge | A discharge, especially a bloody discharge, from the nipple of someone who is not a breastfeeding mother. |
It is important to remember that these symptoms can occur in both women and men . Although breast cancer is not common in men, there is a risk of it developing. Therefore, even if you are a man, if you notice any of these symptoms, you should definitely see a doctor.
What happens when you go to see the doctor?
If you have any of these symptoms, you should first see your family doctor or gynecologist. The doctor will examine you.
Physical Exam
1. Visual exam: The doctor will first look at the size, shape, skin, and nipples of your breasts. You may also be asked to hold your hands in different positions during this time.
2. Manual exam: Next, the doctor will very gently and manually examine your entire breast area, armpits, and the area around your collarbone to check for lumps or other abnormalities.
If any doubts arise after this initial examination, the doctor will refer you for further tests.
What medical tests can be done?
There are various types of tests to confirm or rule out a suspected condition. You may need to have one or more of these.
- Mammogram : This is a specialized X-ray test of the breasts. A diagnostic mammogram can produce clearer, more detailed images in people with symptoms than a routine mammogram in people without symptoms.
- Ultrasound Scan: This test uses sound waves and does not harm the breast tissue. It is especially helpful in clearly determining whether a lump is filled with fluid or solid tissue.
- MRI Scan: If other tests are inconclusive, your doctor may recommend an MRI scan. This test uses magnetic fields to produce very clear images of the inside of the breast.
- Biopsy: This is the only test that can confirm 100% whether cancer is present or not. This involves taking a very small piece of tissue or fluid from the suspicious lump under anesthesia and examining it under a microscope in a laboratory.
How long does it take for test reports to arrive?
This can vary depending on the test and the hospital. Reports from tests like mammograms and ultrasounds may be available immediately or within a day or two.
However, it takes a few days for a biopsy report to come back. This is because the tissue sample taken has to be sent to a laboratory, examined by a specialist, and a report prepared. It is normal to feel a little uneasy during this time. However, this time is essential for an accurate diagnosis. Ask your doctor before the test when you will receive your results and how you will know them.
Take-Home Message
- Never ignore any unusual changes you see or feel in your breasts (a lump, pain, skin changes, nipple discharge).
- Make it a habit to do a breast self-exam at least once a month. If you don't know about it, ask your doctor.
- Not every lump in the breast is cancerous, but only a doctor can determine whether it is cancerous or not.
- If you have any doubts, don't be afraid or delay, see a doctor immediately.
- Early detection of breast cancer is the best and most important step towards successful treatment.
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