Faith Regional Health Services | living WELL | Spring 2018

Faith Regional Physician Services Breast Care & Plastic Surgery 301 N. 27th St., Suite 20, Norfolk 402-844-8167 Do you know the warning signs of breast cancer? Rachel Weber, MD Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Kinzie Norris, MD Breast Oncology Surgeon Ask a woman to name a sign or symptom of breast cancer, and chances are she’d say a lump in the breast. She’d be right, of course. A new lump or mass is the most common symptom of breast cancer. But it’s not the only one. And because it’s best to find breast cancer early, it’s important to know all the possible signs and symptoms of the disease. Stay alert Being familiar with how your breasts look and feel is a key component of breast health. If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms in a breast, you should see a doctor right away: A lump. Most cancerous breast lumps tend to be hard, painless and irregular (rather than rounded) around the edges. Swelling of all or part of a breast—or sometimes in the armpit or collarbone area—even if you can’t feel a lump. Thickened, red or dimpled breast skin. Nipple changes (thickening, irregular margins, nipple pointing inward that used to point outward). Spontaneous nipple discharge (especially from one side and if it is bloody). Any of these signs and symptoms, including lumps, can be caused by things other than cancer. But only a doctor can tell for sure. What happens next? “If a man or a woman notices any changes in his or her breast, the next step is to talk with a doctor,” Kinzie Norris, MD, says. “The doctor will examine the breasts and often will order imaging of the breasts. The imaging may include a mammogram, a breast ultrasound, a breast MRI—or a combination of these. Once imaging has been completed, further recommendations will be given which could include a consultation to a breast specialist like myself, a biopsy, additional imaging studies, or a follow-up appointment for another breast exam if needed.” “It’s important to remember that breast changes are very common, and most are not cancer,” says Dr. Norris. “But it’s crucial to get any follow-up tests your doctor orders and be persistent in getting answers if your symptoms do not go away.” Sources: American Cancer Society; National Cancer Institute scars FRHS.ORG 5