Early detection of cysts, tumors and other abnormalities affecting breasts makes them easier to treat. Self breast exam San Diego CA is recommended on regular basis to identify any lumps. It is an optional way of spotting early signs of cancer. As such, it has been recommended though not to replace regular mammograms.
When you are familiar with the size, texture and shape of your breasts, you can easily note abnormalities. The discrepancies give you grounds on which to consult your doctor before it is too late. The best time to conduct self examination is at the end of your menstrual cycle. There are no hormones that are likely to change your body tissues and lead to erroneous diagnosis.
Women who do not menstruate are advised to select a random date within the month to examine their breasts. For the procedure to be successful, you should keep a journal. The journal helps you to track changes and identify what is consistent. By recording your findings, you have reliable evidence to give to the doctor.
Self exam involves both visual observation and touching. You are advised to stand in front of a mirror and observe such aspects as the size, shape and symmetry. Check if these aspects have changed from the last time you examined. Check for dimpling, puckering, inverted nipples and the existence of asymmetrical ridges at the bottom.
Inspection should be carried out with hands in three positions. Over your head, on the side and while lifting each at a time. Do not use the tip of your finger, instead, lie down and use the pad of several fingers. A similar procedure should be repeated in the shower. The use of soap and water provides a smooth texture that allows fingers to slide over the skin making it easier to feel small lumps.
Massaging should be conducted in spiral motion ensuring that you spend time on each section. Flow from the nipple moving towards your collarbone, to the mid section around the breast bone and finally towards the armpits. Place the other hand over the head to provide enough exposure. The last thing is to squeeze both nipples and ensure that there is no discharge.
What are the risks of breast exam? The risks are not of a medical nature. However, experts observe that women who find lumps get anxious and alarmed to the point of overreacting. The experts confirm that between 80 and 90 percent of lumps are not cancerous. There are other benign conditions like fibrocystic breast disease that cause lumps.
Self examination has also been associated with increasing unnecessary biopsies on breasts. During the biopsies, certain tissues are surgically removed. This is dangerous because it is likely to cause infections and bleeding, among other complications. The experts consider it unnecessary since the lumps are not dangerous.
The presence of a lump should not cause panic. There are numerous non-cancerous tumors affecting different tissues that should not worry you. Some are caused by hormonal changes and will therefore disappear. This does not mean that you should ignore abnormalities or lumps. You are advised to see a doctor for professional examination and recommendation.
When you are familiar with the size, texture and shape of your breasts, you can easily note abnormalities. The discrepancies give you grounds on which to consult your doctor before it is too late. The best time to conduct self examination is at the end of your menstrual cycle. There are no hormones that are likely to change your body tissues and lead to erroneous diagnosis.
Women who do not menstruate are advised to select a random date within the month to examine their breasts. For the procedure to be successful, you should keep a journal. The journal helps you to track changes and identify what is consistent. By recording your findings, you have reliable evidence to give to the doctor.
Self exam involves both visual observation and touching. You are advised to stand in front of a mirror and observe such aspects as the size, shape and symmetry. Check if these aspects have changed from the last time you examined. Check for dimpling, puckering, inverted nipples and the existence of asymmetrical ridges at the bottom.
Inspection should be carried out with hands in three positions. Over your head, on the side and while lifting each at a time. Do not use the tip of your finger, instead, lie down and use the pad of several fingers. A similar procedure should be repeated in the shower. The use of soap and water provides a smooth texture that allows fingers to slide over the skin making it easier to feel small lumps.
Massaging should be conducted in spiral motion ensuring that you spend time on each section. Flow from the nipple moving towards your collarbone, to the mid section around the breast bone and finally towards the armpits. Place the other hand over the head to provide enough exposure. The last thing is to squeeze both nipples and ensure that there is no discharge.
What are the risks of breast exam? The risks are not of a medical nature. However, experts observe that women who find lumps get anxious and alarmed to the point of overreacting. The experts confirm that between 80 and 90 percent of lumps are not cancerous. There are other benign conditions like fibrocystic breast disease that cause lumps.
Self examination has also been associated with increasing unnecessary biopsies on breasts. During the biopsies, certain tissues are surgically removed. This is dangerous because it is likely to cause infections and bleeding, among other complications. The experts consider it unnecessary since the lumps are not dangerous.
The presence of a lump should not cause panic. There are numerous non-cancerous tumors affecting different tissues that should not worry you. Some are caused by hormonal changes and will therefore disappear. This does not mean that you should ignore abnormalities or lumps. You are advised to see a doctor for professional examination and recommendation.