By Dr. Kathleen Ruddy
Breasts are made of tissue that varies in texture and consistency. The outer part feels more firm, as opposed to the softer lower parts. This inconsistency has had some women worried that it may be a sign of a cancerous tumor. In most cases the lumpy feeling is nothing to worry about. In other cases, especially if the lump is hard or pronounced, it is time to show concern. If you have found a lump in the breast you should know what to do next.
You Found a Lump. What do you Do?
First of all, don’t panic. With the increased awareness of breast cancer finding an unusual lump is bound to cause stress. However, most doctors recommend that you throw panic out of the window, since nine out of 10 lumps are not cancer. It is, however, important to have it checked out. Most lumps will go away on their own, but just to be sure, see a healthcare provider.
It’s not Cancer, What can it Be?
Lumps usually form during the menstrual period and will disappear at the end of the cycle. In other cases it could be harmless cysts in the breast. Other times it could be tissue that has just grown past its normal size, which is not cancerous. Regardless, it is important to see the doctor whenever something out of the ordinary appears.
DID YOU KNOW?
Breast cancer is the second to lung cancer in cause of cancer deaths in women. The chances of breast cancer being responsible for a woman’s death is about 3 percent, with death rates declining due to earlier detection and increased awareness.
What Should You Look out For?
In some cases, lumps may not be necessary to portend a change in the breasts. Women are thus advised to be breast-aware at all times. In addition to lumps, any signs of thickening, sore spots, discoloration, and overall discomfort should be addressed by the local health provider. If you are unsure about getting checked always err on the side of caution and see the doctor.
The Lump was Examined and Breast Cancer is Suspected. What Next?
If your doctor suspects that the lump may be cancerous, a mammogram and ultrasound should be scheduled to further determine if the lump is indeed a cancerous tumor. A mammogram is similar to x-ray, although it is low dosage. The ultrasound is much safer and gives much more information, such as whether it is a solid or fluid-filled lump. All throughout the screening process, it is important to maintain a positive outlook. Benign tumors are more common than many people think.
What are the Survival Chances for Breast Cancer Patients?
With increased awareness efforts, most types of breast cancer can be detected and treated early, thus helping majority of patients to live long, healthy lives. The trick here is to get mammograms and checkups regularly, so if any abnormal sign of the disease is detected it can be taken care of as soon as possible. Advanced diagnostic equipment and techniques, and better treatment and care facilities have also played a part in the ongoing successful fight against breast cancer.
Can Benign Lumps Increase the Odds of Developing Breast Cancer?
Benign lumps are usually not breast cancer, but some types of lumps that have abnormal cells may increase the odds of developing the disease. A family history of breast cancer increases the odds too, especially in benign lumps cases.
Breast cancer is quickly becoming the foremost form of cancer in the world. While this fact makes it imperative for women to be alert at all times, it is also good to note that lumps form all the time and most are not going to be cancerous. As unsettling as a tumor can be, between 75-87 percent don’t result in dire consequences. While it may be harmless, the lump should be checked out to rule out any other complications. Regular self-exams are just as important as a visit to the doctor and shouldn’t be ignored.
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