Feel It On The First

This is your friendly reminder for any and all! Even though mine was found in a mammogram you need to know your breast.

First time I saw this head line was about a month after my diagnosis. A group of doctors who care for breast cancer patients post it every month. Being October 1, Breast Cancer Awareness month, I felt compelled to remind everyone.

Feel It on the First!

Men too! Know your body. Be your own advocate. Doing a monthly self breast check will familiarize you with our own body. Check for any unusual lumps, bumps, dimples or changes. You just might save your own life!

Here’s what to look out for:

Breast Changes:

• Size or shape
• Deformation
• Lumps in the breast, upper chest or armpits
• Swelling of the breast or arm

Skin Changes:

• Redness
• Orange peel skin
• Thickening
• Discoloration
• Dimpling, pitting or puckering
• Localized feeling of warmth
• Ulceration or wound
• Visible vein
• Skin shrinkage

Nipple Changes:

• Appearance
• Spontaneous Discharge
• Inversion
• Deviation
• Eczema or ulceration of the nipple

If you find anything, visit your doctor immediately! And from experience, if you find a lump demand for an ultrasound! If you’re under 40, remember… an ultrasound, not a mammogram! A clinical examination just won’t suffice!

Keep in mind, that not all changes are breast cancer! In fact, it’s quite normal for our breast to change due to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, lactation or aging. But it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Even if you have had those bad boys removed, like me, you still need to feel the area for any changes.