Everyone knows what Breast Cancer is – but how much do you really know about it? Do you know the symptoms? Do you know when to call a doctor? Do you know the types? This article should leave you with some great information that will help you better understand this devastating disease. Be sure to follow up with your doctor if you, or someone you know, suspects Breast Cancer.

In the very early stages of Breast Cancer, there are no symptoms. As the tumour begins to develop, you might start to notice some common signs. A lump in your breast or your underarm that lasts beyond your menstral cycle, swelling in the armpit, tenderness in the breast, flattening or indentation of the breast, changes in the size, contour, texture, or temperature of the breast, a change in your nipple, or discharge from the nipple are all possible signs and is a strong indication that you should speak to your doctor for testing.

Usually, breast cancer is seen in women who are over 40; however, it can strike at any age. You should keep an eye on your body if you fall into any of the risk factor categories such as a personal or family history of breast cancer.

Men are also at risk for breast cancer. Men do have breast tissue that consist of a few ducts surrounded by breast and other tissue. Since this is actually breast tissue, men are at risk for developing breast cancer. Male breast cancer is very rare possibly due to the smaller amount of breast tissue and the fact that they produce less estrogen which is known to affect breast cancers in women. It is very rare for men under the age of 35 to develop breast cancer, but family history such as a close female relative increase the risk.

Two common methods of treating breast cancer are chemotherapy and radiation. These methods work by dividing cancer cells, but they can also affect healthy cells too. Side effects of the treatment could include a loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, weakness, sore mouth, hair loss, premature menopause, and a lowered resistance to infections. If you are experiencing any of these complications, try the following suggestions:

Loss of appetite: Try eating smaller, more frequent meals.

Nausea: Avoid greasy foods and citrus; try to eat things that are bland.

Fatigue: Ensure you are getting enough rest and take naps if necessary. Mild exercise could also help combat fatigue.

Mouth Soreness: Ask your doctor for a prescription. You can also choose foods that are cut into small pieces, soft foods, and try to avoid citrus, spicy or salty foods.

If you have breast cancer, be vigilant about the following signs:

• A temperature over 100º F
• New mouth sores, patches, swollen tongue, or bleeding gums
• A new or persistent cough
• Gastrointestinal changes (heart burn, constipations, diarrhea, etc)

*Photo courtesy of Crystal Woroniuk