Doctors advise women to perform regular breast examinations to detect cancer at an early stage, as the sooner it is detected, the better the chances of fighting the deadly disease. However, there are certain areas that women are likely to overlook during self-examination, particularly the area around the nipple.
Other areas that should be monitored include the armpits and the area near the collarbone, which are often forgotten during the examination.
Start by examining the nipple thoroughly; do not just look for visible changes such as discharge or rash, but also feel the area surrounding it. According to doctors, a healthy nipple gives a feeling of large granules, but if cancer is present, you may feel a lump or several lumps directly beneath the nipple, which are usually hard and can be more easily distinguished. Therefore, it is advisable to press on the nipple and the surrounding area to ensure there are no hard lumps.
Experts say it is important to check this area carefully, as mammograms do not always detect signs of breast cancer there.
Here are some steps to take during breast self-examination, which is recommended to be done monthly, as reported by the British newspaper "The Sun":
1. Start by looking in the mirror, facing it with your arms on your hips and shoulders straight. Look for any dimpling, wrinkling, swelling of the skin, redness, pain, rash, or changes in the nipple.
2. Continue looking in the mirror, raising your arms above your head, and check for the same items mentioned in step one.
3. While keeping your arms above your head, check for any fluid coming from the nipples. This can include milky, yellow, watery, or blood-like fluid.
4. While lying down, use your opposite hand to examine each breast. Using a few fingers and keeping them flat, make small circular movements around your breasts, starting from the nipple, then press down on it.
5. Feel your breasts while standing or sitting, using the same small circular motions. If you notice any unusual changes in your breasts, it is important to visit your doctor.
