Breast Cancer Awareness

As it's Breast Cancer Awareness month I thought I would do my part in spreading the word as I get the impression that I have instilled 'the fear' in quite a lot of my friends.  

I have always been a bit of hypochondriac and have assumed I have had cancer half a dozen times but I never reaaaaally thought it would happen. This does beg the question if I actually brought it on myself like some sort of self-fulfilling prophecy. Then again it was my mild hypochondria that meant I caught my cancer early! Obviously I am not saying that you should spend your life worrying incessantly about getting cancer. No no no. All I am saying is that if something arises that is a little concerning, you might as well get it checked out! 

My old manager and friend Anita posted this Breast Cancer awareness thing a few years ago and it was then that I actually began to take note of what I should be looking for. 

So here are a few warning signs:

1. Lumps and Bumps

2. Swelling or Redness

3. Changes in Size or Shape

4. Dimpling or Puckering

5. Itching or Oozing Nipples (disgusting but it's apparently a thing)

6. Pain

My boobs always felt a little lumpy and glandy and muscley so I was always terrified that I would have a lump and never know. Well, this seems to be the issue with a lot of girls so if you feel something but are a little unsure just get it checked! EASY! I was pretty lucky as my lump was quick to identify as it was unusually high up on my chest, but this isn't always the case. 

Other than my lump I didn't have any other symptoms besides feeling unusually tired around my time of diagnosis. 

In conclusion my best advice would be to vigilant about self examination. Hell, get the boyfriend involved if you like! I would also urge you to become a little more in tune with your body and be aware when something isn't quite right. A later stage diagnosis doesn't necessarily mean the end of the world but catching cancer early is one the best ways to beat it!