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.
Familiarizing yourself with the shape, texture and size of your breasts is important so that you can identify cases of abnormality. It is only by identifying abnormality that you can inform your doctor in good time. Self examination is best carried out immediately after your menstrual cycle. It helps you avoid the deception caused by hormonal changes.
Some women do not menstruate. They are advised to randomly select a date every month and conduct the exam. Every woman should have a journal with observations made during the exams. It offers a tangible evidence of inconsistencies instead of relying on memory. You will use the findings to review your condition with the doctor.
Self examination requires you to both observe and touch. By standing in front of the mirror, inspect the shape, size and symmetry of the two breasts. Take note of any changes from the last inspection. Other observations to make include puckering, dimpling, inverted nipples or asymmetrical ridges below your breasts.
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.
Adopt a spiral pattern when massaging the breasts. Be attentive and take your time to massage from the nipple. You should move up towards the collarbone, the center around the breastbone and towards the armpits. The arm that is not massaging should be placed on the head. The last procedure is to squeeze the nipples and check if there is a discharge.
Is self examination risky in any way? Though there are no medical risks to self exam, the procedure has been linked with anxiety and overreacting. Doctors confirm that eighty to ninety percent of lumps are non-cancerous. They arise out of such benign conditions as fibrocystic breast disease and are should therefore not cause panic.
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.
What if I spot a lump? Do not panic. With up to 90 percent of tumors being non-cancerous, you have no reason to worry. It could be hormonal changes which will cause the lump to disappear with time. The best course of action is to seek an appointment with your doctor for professional and detailed examination so that the correct medical step can be taken.
Familiarizing yourself with the shape, texture and size of your breasts is important so that you can identify cases of abnormality. It is only by identifying abnormality that you can inform your doctor in good time. Self examination is best carried out immediately after your menstrual cycle. It helps you avoid the deception caused by hormonal changes.
Some women do not menstruate. They are advised to randomly select a date every month and conduct the exam. Every woman should have a journal with observations made during the exams. It offers a tangible evidence of inconsistencies instead of relying on memory. You will use the findings to review your condition with the doctor.
Self examination requires you to both observe and touch. By standing in front of the mirror, inspect the shape, size and symmetry of the two breasts. Take note of any changes from the last inspection. Other observations to make include puckering, dimpling, inverted nipples or asymmetrical ridges below your breasts.
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.
Adopt a spiral pattern when massaging the breasts. Be attentive and take your time to massage from the nipple. You should move up towards the collarbone, the center around the breastbone and towards the armpits. The arm that is not massaging should be placed on the head. The last procedure is to squeeze the nipples and check if there is a discharge.
Is self examination risky in any way? Though there are no medical risks to self exam, the procedure has been linked with anxiety and overreacting. Doctors confirm that eighty to ninety percent of lumps are non-cancerous. They arise out of such benign conditions as fibrocystic breast disease and are should therefore not cause panic.
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.
What if I spot a lump? Do not panic. With up to 90 percent of tumors being non-cancerous, you have no reason to worry. It could be hormonal changes which will cause the lump to disappear with time. The best course of action is to seek an appointment with your doctor for professional and detailed examination so that the correct medical step can be taken.
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When you need a breast exam San Diego CA women can turn to Valley Radiology Consultants. To check out our many other fine services, visit us online today at http://www.valleyrad.com.
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