How to Recognize the Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer, an illness that occurs when tumors form in the breast ducts or glands, is like many other cancers, in that early detection is a major factor in recovery. Knowing how to recognize the symptoms of breast cancer is critical to remaining in control of your health.

Instructions

1. Ask your doctor how often you should be checked for signs of the disease. Early detection is crucial for a successful fight against breast cancer.

2. Recognize that symptoms such as breast tenderness, lumps and puckered skin can all be signs of a tumor in the breast. Make an appointment to be checked as soon as you become concerned, and keep regular mammogram appointments.

3. Connect with others who want to be proactive about staving off the disease and remaining healthy. They can remind you to get tested and to engage in self-testing in between professional health visits. You can also encourage each other to eat better, get more exercise and to talk about your fears.

4. Teach other women to check themselves for signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Encourage each woman to make a doctor's appointment to discuss preventative measures.

5. Realize that the body is a connected whole and that anything you do to improve your overall health can help you to fight this increasingly common disease. A diet rich in vegetables and whole grains, along with a regular exercise program, can help ward off illness.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your doctor if you can do more to recognize the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. If you are in a high-risk group, she may want you to do more frequent self-checks and keep a checklist posted on the wall of your bathroom as a reminder.

• Prepare yourself for the stress and anxiety of a cancer diagnosis by connecting with your hospital's breast cancer support group. The American Cancer Society can also connect you to a group (see "Resources" below).

• The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) offers an online informational document on the application of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to employees suffering from cancer (see "Resources" below).