Girls, It's Time To Get Checked!

Learning about your body is possibly the best form of self-love you can give yourself. Dedicating some time out of your day to simply get to know yourself on a more intimate level is definitely a self-rewarding time. You know what’s normal for you and what works for you. Familiarizing yourself this way leads to any sudden change to be noticed immediately therefore proactive action and treatment can be carried out more efficiently.



Here’s the big 5 signs of breast cancer that you should be on the lookout for.



1. Change in the size and shape of the breast.
It’s important to note that many women naturally have breasts of different sizes. This can be due to puberty, trauma and any hormonal changes. However, if there’s a large and abnormal variation in the size of your breasts, this could be an indication of cancer.



2. Pain in any area of the breast.
The breasts develop when you’re on your menstrual cycle due to an increase in estrogen. There are various hormonal changes that occur, causing changes in the breast tissue which can lead to pain or discomfort in some women. However, if you have breast pain that is localized in only one area and is consistent even after your menstrual cycle, it’s best to see a doctor.



3. A new lump in the breast or armpit area.
It’s natural to have lumpy breasts due to the tissue having a naturally bumpy texture. If the lumpiness can be felt throughout the breast and feels the same as your other breast, then it is likely normal breast tissue. If the lumps feel hard, then you should get checked.



4. Irritation or dimpling of the breast skin.
The skin around your breast should feel pretty smooth. However, if you begin to notice skin dimpling (your skin will have a texture similar to that of an orange peel), then it could be a sign of breast cancer. Skin dimpling causes your breast to feel swollen, especially tender or even a burning sensation so do visit your doctor immediately.



5. Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
Nipple discharge that is excreted during your pregnancy or breastfeeding period is completely normal. Still, it’s important to keep an eye on it, especially on the colour as it’s usually a tell-tale sign of whether or not it’s cancerous. Bloody, clear or pus-filled discharge could be a sign of cancer. If it’s accompanied with nipple changes like turning inward, itching or scaling, get checked immediately.