Worried about Breast Cancer?
6 Warning Signs
Do you know the signs and symptoms that might indicate
breast cancer? While personal and family histories of breast cancer and
lifestyle habits (including diet, exercise and how you handle stress) can all
affect breast-cancer risk, learning to recognize the signs of breast cancer may
save your life; early diagnosis is key to treatment and recovery.
Performing a monthly self-examination is still recommended
by many health professionals, as is having a yearly exam performed by your
doctor. In addition, the National Cancer Institute suggests keeping an eye out
for the following signs:
1.
A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in
the underarm area
2.
A change in the size or shape of the breast
3.
Nipple discharge or tenderness
4.
An inverted nipple
5.
Ridges or pitting on the breast (resembling an
orange peel)
6.
A change in the look or feel of the breast,
areola or nipple (such as temperature, swelling, redness or a scaly feel)
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, see your
doctor for a diagnosis and possible treatment.
If you are over 40, talk to your doctor about mammograms.
6 Preventive Tips
According to the American Cancer Society, every three
minutes, on average, another woman learns she has breast cancer. The good news
is that there are several strategies that can help reduce risk. Try
incorporating the following lifestyle changes into your daily routine:
1.
Get active. Regular physical activity (at least
30 minutes on most days) has been shown to be protective against breast cancer.
2.
Maintain your health care. Early detection is
key: in addition to monthly Breast-Self examinations, women between ages 20 and
39 should have a clinical breast exam performed by a health care professional
at least every three years; women 40 years of age or older should have annual
breast exams and talk with their doctor about mammograms.
3.
Supplement wisely. Folic acid, vitamin D and
antioxidants all may help decrease risk.
4.
Reduce exposure to xeno-estrogens. These
chemicals with estrogen-like activity are found in common pesticides and
industrial pollutants and as hormone residues in meat, poultry and dairy
products.
5.
Avoid exposure to radiation. Limiting the number
of chest x-rays you receive, especially at a young age, may decrease the risk
of breast cancer.
6.
Talk with your doctor. If you have close
relatives with breast cancer, your personal risk is increased. Let your doctor
know your family history, and discuss other ways you can help to prevent breast
cancer.
Daily tips On-line
from www.drweil.com
