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   Most Commonly Asked Questions Cancer Related Topics Consultation Treatment Cost and Insurance Related Services Appointment Info How To Reach Us Free Information   Breast Self Examination Guide Seven Warning Signals Examination Checklist Important Tips Reduce Your Risk Risk Candidates |
There are many issues and concerns about cancer. For instance how to recognize symptoms, prevention measures, treatment issues and aspects about a particular type of cancer. Periodically we will highlight one aspect of cancer. Illustrations by: Ray Simmons |
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Stand in the shower and with fingers flat (do not use the tips
of your fingers) move your hand gently over every part of each breast. Check
for lump, knot or thickening. Use right had for left breast, left hand for
right breast.
With you hands at your sides, visually check for lumps, depressions
(hollows). Then, placing palms on hips, press down firmly, flex you chest
muscles and check again. Don't worry if your breast don't match - chances
are they won't.
Now raise your arms overhead. Look for changes in the contour of
each breast as well as swelling, dimpling of the skin and changes in the
nipple.
To examine your right breast, place a pillow or folded towel under
right shoulder and let your right hand on your forehead, elbow bent and
slightly forward. This distributes breast tissue more evenly on your chest.
Repeat on the other side.
With fingers flat, use left hand to press an imaginary clock face on
your right breast. Check for lumps or depressions (hollows). A ridge of
firm tissue in lower curve is normal. Move in an inch toward nipple and make
the same circling motion again and again until you reach the center. Repeat
with right hand, left breast.
Gently squeeze the nipple of each breast. Check for any discharge,
clear or bloody. Report any lumps, thickening or discharges you discover
during this examination to your doctor immediately.