Blog Post 5

How To Perform A Self-Breast Exam

It is important that people of all ages perform self-breast exams at least once a month. These self-exams can be performed in many different locations (i.e. shower, in front of a mirror, or lying down) and they will not interfere with your daily life. There are five easy steps to performing a self-exam.

Step 1: Look at your breasts in the mirror with your hands on your hips.                

If you see any of the following changes you should consult your doctor immediately:

• Dimpling, puckering or bulging of the skin
• A nipple that has changed position
• Redness, soreness, rash or swelling   

Step 2: Raise your arms and look for the same changes.

Step 3: While you're at the mirror, look for any signs of fluid coming out of the nipples. 

Step 4: Feel your breasts while lying down. Use your right hand to feel your left breast, and your left hand to feel your right breast. Move the finger pad of your hands in a circular motion around the breasts.

Step 5: Lastly, feel your breasts while standing or sitting. Use the same hand movements as in Step 4. 

I encourage you all to spread the word to family, friends and loved ones about the importance of self-breast exams! These exams could contribute to early detection of breast cancer, saving the lives of individuals. For more detailed instructions on how to perform a self-breast exam, please visit http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/testing/types/self_exam/bse_steps



References:

1. The Five Steps of a Breast Self-Exam. (n.d.). Retrieved November 21, 2014, from http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/testing/types/self_exam/bse_steps

Blog Post 4

What Should You Ask Your Doctor After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis?

A breast cancer diagnosis is a lot to take in. I know that it can be intimidating and you may be at a loss for what to say. However, it’s important to ask your healthcare provider a lot of questions in order to ensure that you thoroughly understand your diagnosis. If you are in shock after your diagnosis, I suggest asking your healthcare professional if you can take a step outside to take some deep breaths and collect your thoughts. If you don’t want to do this, go home and write down a list of questions that you think of and ask your provider these questions at your next appointment. A few questions that you may want to ask include:

• What are my treatment options? 
• What stage of breast cancer do I have?
•  What does this mean? 
• What risks and side effects should I expect to experience from treatment?
• What can I do to make this process easier?
• Has my cancer spread to my lymph nodes or other organs? 
• Should I change my diet or exercise routine because of diagnosis?
• Will I be able to have children after my treatment?

And remember, don’t be afraid to collect your thoughts and ask questions. You need to understand your diagnosis so that you can decide what steps to take next. 

References:


1. Questions to Ask My Doctor About Breast Cancer. (n.d.). Retrieved November 7, 2014, from http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/cid/documents/webcontent/003284-pdf.pdf