Breast cancer is a type of cancer that affects around 44,500 people each year. Of these around 300 are believed to be men. It develops when tissues in the breast start to multiply in a rapid and uncontrolled fashion. Like other types of cancer, the symptoms can often be difficult to spot. However, if you know what you are looking for then your chances of identifying this condition early are greatly increased. In this article I will be helping you do just that by discussing three of the possible symptoms.
1) A LUMP OR THICKNESS IN THE BREAST:- Most breast lumps are not cancerous. According to Cancer Research UK 90% of these lumps are caused by; non-cancerous changes in the appearance of the breast, cysts (pouches of fluid in the breast tissue) or Fibroadenoma (a group of fibrous glandular tissues). However, this is still the most common breast cancer symptom so it is worth getting any lumps you do identify checked out by your doctor. Even if they do turn out to be non-cancerous you can identify the cause and possibly have the lump removed simply by going to see your doctor.
2) A CHANGE IN THE BREAST SKIN'S APPEARANCE:- If your breast skin starts to look different this could be a sign of breast cancer. This type of cancer may cause your breast skin to become dimpled (like an orange peel), wrinkled, swollen or inflamed. However, like with lumps a change in the breast skin's appearance can be down to other factors. It may be caused by another less serious medical condition, some medications you have been taking or some other influence. Whatever the cause, you should have any unexplained change in the skin examined by your doctor to be on the safe side.
3) LIQUID DISCHARGE FROM THE NIPPLE:- Another possible symptom of breast cancer is nipple discharge. This discharge can be in the form of either blood or pus that is clear, green or yellow. However, like the above symptoms discharge from the nipple is generally down to other causes. Even so the only way to be sure is to go and see your doctor who will then be able to perform further tests and identify the cause.
Breast cancer is relatively difficult to spot. Even if you do identify one of the symptoms listed above, it is does not necessarily mean you have cancer. However, by knowing what to look for you can take action early and go see your doctor. If they determine that the symptoms are non-cancerous you can put your mind at rest. If the symptoms do turn out to be cancerous you are still in a good position because the cancer has been discovered early when it is much more treatable. Examine your breasts regularly and if you notice any of the symptoms listed in the article go see your doctor right away.
Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative, it is intended for general information only. Breast cancer is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor.
Tom Parker owns and operates a number of useful fitness resources and websites. You can learn more about the various breast cancer symptoms by visitng http://blog.freefitnesstips.co.uk/breast-cancer-explained.html
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