Cancer is always unexpected. I write my blog to kind of get everything off my chest as I'm feeling it and it definitely helps my mental health. If anybody reads it and it sinks in the importance of regularly checking yourself then I'd consider that a win as you would never think it would happen to you.
So I thought I'd create a page here on how to check yourself.
Raising awareness is key. I want you to pass it on.
Checking Yourself
- Know what is normal for your body.
Breasts can change at different times of the month, it's not just about the look, it's about the feel aswell.
- If you're over 50, make sure you're attending your screenings.
The same goes for smears for those from a younger age.
How to Check
- Run your finger tips over, around and down each boob.
- Do the same for your armpits and collarbones.
Be sure to do that with your arm by your side, out to the side and up in the air just to cover all angles. Try it all while laying down and again when you have a shower as that is when it's considered the easiest.
Image Source: https://colleenrothschild.com/
What to look out for
- A change in the size, outline, or shape of your breast.
- A change in the look or feel of your skin, such a puckering or dimpling.
- A new lump, thickening or bumpy area in one breast or armpit that is different from the same area on the other side.
- Nipple discharge that is not milky.
- Bleeding from your nipple.
- A moist, red area on your nipple that doesn't heal easily.
- Any change in nipple position, such as your nipple being pulled in or pointing differently.
- A rash on or around your nipple.
- Any discomfort or pain in one breast, particularly if it is a new pain and doesn't go away (although pain is only a symptom of breast cancer in rare cases).
The above information has been taken from the NHS website.
The images below are of myself and I'm sharing them to show what the dimpling can look like. (Excuse the breastfeeding baby in the left picture but I've used a filter so that you can see the dimpling properly to the left of my cleavage.)
The first image was taken around the time of my diagnosis and the second image was taken mid-way through chemotherapy in October.
Remember
ANY changes get yourself to the GP! Not satisfied with the answer? Get a second opinion.
For monthly reminders, head to Coppa Feel and enter your details and they will send you a text reminder on the first of every month to remind you to #feelitonthefirst
Note: It is important that you remember that if you do find any of the things that are on the above list, it does not necessarily mean that you do have breast cancer but it is of the utmost significance that you get it checked out.