“Early Signs of Skin Changes in Breast Cancer: What to Watch Out For”
Whenever something goes wrong inside our body our body always signals it out to us. And sometimes checking out those signals save us from something very terrible. The same goes with breast cancer. Our body gives certain indications about which we will talk to be cautious and aware so that we can take step at very early stage of this diseases.
Let’s understand what is early stage of breast cancer?
First of all, early stage of breast cancer means that the cancer cells are limited to only the breast or nearby lymph nodes. Generally cancer cells have the tendency to spread in different parts of body but in the early stage of any type of cancer it is limited to a small area or organ and at that time its treatment is quite easy. But again early signs and symptoms are different in different individuals because our bodies are different and react differently.
If you notice something unusual on your breast skin it need not to be a cancer but following below are some changes that might be an alarm for you to check for cancer.
- Dimpling on breast skin
This breast skin looks as if it has been pulled towards inside and looks like small dimples from above. This happens when the tumour affects the tissue underneath the skin and pulls inwards.
- Rashes or redness on breast skin.
If you observe redness or rashes that are not getting better then it could be pointing towards any alarming situation. It might be any allergy or irritation at first but if it’s very difficult to overcome then do consult doctor for this.
- Swelling of breast
Sometimes the skin on the breast may feel a little firm, somewhat swollen, its normal puffiness but if it’s more firm than usual then it’s something else.
- Changes around nipple area
Sometimes the position and shape of nipple changes suddenly and becomes painful. In case of breast cancer cells pulls nipple inward due to which nipple points inward rather than outward. If you are observing such changes of firmness and painful then it might be an alarm. - Itchy skin with pain
Itching can be due to many reasons, it might be dry skin or allergy but if it persists and relief is not obtained even after applying cream then it must not be ignored.
- Self-examination:
Incorporate a simple self-examination routine into your day which is a very simple process and takes minutes.
Steps include as following:
In front of the mirror: Stand in front of a mirror with your hands at your sides, then check out if you observe any changes.
Physical Check: Gently feel each breast area with your fingers in a circular motion, from the armpit to the centre of the chest. Notice any unusual lumps or hard areas.
Doctor consultation:
As important as self-examination is, it is equally important to consult a doctor. Today we have so many technologies which can detect breast cancer at very early stage even before the actual symptoms occur in our body. Especially if you are 40+ and have the history of breast cancer in your family then ask your doctor for routine mammography.
Remember:
Awareness is to take precautions and avoid complication but it does not mean to be worried for each and every small changes. Being aware gives you power to act if something seems unusual.
So, keep an eye on any changes on your skin and be regular with your check-ups. This is all about being proactive for your health. Our bodies communicate quite well—sometimes we only have to hear.
So keep an eye on the changes you observe. As Prevention is better than cure especially if it’s the matter of your previous HEALTH!