December Breast Check Reminder

A few days after the usual date. Please check them today.

This is from Home Health UK

IN THE SHOWER/ BATH



Fingers slide easier over wet skin. Raise your left arm and with the flat side of your hand move gently over each breast in a circular motion. Check for any lump, hard knot or thickening. Do not squeeze or prod your breasts. It is also important that you feel around your collarbone and armpit for any swellings or lumps.

IN FRONT OF A MIRROR



Put your hands on your hips and then press inwards until the chest muscles tighten. This will make any changes more prominent. Now, put your hands on your head and look for dimples or bulges, particularly underneath your breast. Dimples that are symmetrical in each breast are usually harmless. Put your arm over your head and look again for any changes. Look carefully at your breasts from every angle from the side, underneath and leaning forward.

LYING DOWN



Place a pillow under your left shoulder and put your left arm above your head. Examine your breast in a circular motion. Look for any change in nipple direction, puckering, swelling of the dark skin surrounding the nipple or orange peel skin. Repeat on right side. Also squeeze each nipple gently to check for any discharge.

There are a few other signs you should be aware of and look out for when doing your self-awareness - check routine:

A change in the shape or size of the breast - it may be that one breast has become noticeably larger or lower.
The nipple turns in - it becomes inverted.
The nipple changes position or shape.
A swelling or lump in your armpit.
A blood-stained discharge - this a very rare symptom.
A rash on a nipple or surrounding area (very rare).
Veins which stand out more than usual.
Any pain in your breast that you have not experienced before.
Remember, that if there is any change in your breast from what is normal for you, you should make an appointment to discuss your concerns with your doctor.

What else may cause lumps or pain in the breast?

The good news is that 9 out of 10 breast lumps are not caused by cancer and will prove to be benign. Although breast problems can sometimes be painful, they can usually be treated easily and rapidly.

There are two types of lumps common in women:-

Cysts - these are fluid filled lumps, which may vary in size. They can be removed if they are painful, but they usually shrink without the need of treatment.
Fibro-adenomas - these are firm painless lumps, made up of fibrous and glandular tissue. These lumps are easy to remove surgically if they are causing discomfort.
Breast pain, also known as mastalgia, is a common problem that most women experience at some point in their life. This usually happens before their period and can be helped by a prescription, available from your doctor. As with all breast problems you should always report any lumps or pain to your doctor.