Get Mammo'ed: Signs You Can't Ignore

Mammograms are uncomfortable for many women. Some put off their yearly mammogram far too long, even with symptoms that scream out. If you are having any of the following five signs, you need to schedule a doctor's visit and a mammogram to check it out. Breast cancer is a serious issue to women, one that can result in the loss of a breast, both breasts, and even your life. It is very detectable if you get mammo'ed, and if you do regular self exams. Keep a watch over your breasts, and try to do your manual self check at around the same time every month so that you won't feel or see menstrual changes in the breast tissue. If you want to even be more diligent, take a picture of your breasts from month to month so that you compare past exams with the current exam. Changes could come on slowly and be forgotten without stark proof.

Size/Shape Differences
If your breast changes shape or size and it are not due to weight gain or weight loss, you will need to see a doctor. Size and shape changes show breast tissue shifts and should be looked at more closely. This includes any dimpling of the skin or pulling to one side of the body.

Pain
If your breast is painful or tender to the touch and it isn't related to menstrual issues such as PMS or menopause, you will need to tell your doctor. Breasts that aren't going through hormonal issues shouldn't ever be tender to the touch and need a more thorough exam look.

Lumps
If you feel a knot, thickening skin, or any lump in the breast tissue you will need to get a mammogram and possibly an ultrasound to check out the tissue. This also goes for the underarm as well as the breast tissue.

Nipple Changes
Two of the six signs show differences in nipples. If your nipple is turning inward, or if it has a discharge and tenderness, you should see about getting a doctor to schedule a mammogram. Nipples can show much about what is going on with the breast cells.

Tissue Changes
If any part of the breast, areola, or nipple has a change of skin tissue and becomes red, scaly, swollen, or gets the appearance of an orange's skin, you will need to see a doctor. Tissue changes can show breast tissue cells in crises.