Breast Cancer Awareness - Signs to look out for

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it's important to be breast aware so you notice any changes as soon as possible.

Get to know what is normal for you - for instance your breasts may look or feel different at difference times of your life. This will make it easier to notice potential problems.

Breast cancer in Women

The first symptom of breast cancer that most women notice is a lump or an area of thickened tissue in their breast. Most breast lumps are not cancerous, but it's always best to have them checked by a doctor.

You should see a GP if you notice any of the following:

• A new lup or area of thickened tissue in either breast that was not there before
• A change in the size or shapre of one or both breasts
• A discharge of fluid from either of your nipples
• A lump or swelling in either of your armpits
• A change in the look or feel of your skin, such as puckering or dimpling, a rash or redness
• A rash (like eczema), crusting, scaly or itchy skin or redness on or around your nipple
• A change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast

Information taken from the NHS website, find out more by clicking here.

Breast cancer in Men

Breast cancer is often thought of as something that only affects women, but men can get it in rare cases. It grows in the small amount of breast tissue men have behind their nipples. It usually happens in men over 60, but can very occasionally affect younger men.

You should see a GP if you notice any of the following:

• A lump in the breast - this is usually hard, painless and does not move around within the breast
• The nipple turning inwards
• Fluid oozing from the nipple, which may be streaked with blood
• A sore or rash around the nipple that does not go away
• The nipple or surrounding skin becoming hard, red or swollen
• Small bumps in the armpit

Information taken from the NHS website, find out more by clicking here.