Mini-Health Scare
A week or so ago, I went to the doctor because I had discovered a lump. Yes, a lump in my breast. At the ripe age of 28, I had found a lump. I called my doctor a week later (once I scrounged up the courage to do so) and went in for an exam. Two days later, I was getting a mammogram. There are a lot of things that run through your head when you’re in that kind of situation. My grandfather had suffered from Breast Cancer–yes, my GRANDFATHER. He would eventually lose the battle from breast cancer coupled with lung cancer. I also had an aunt that had it, but is in remission. My mother had skin cancer which had spread to lymph-nodes and had to undergo chemotherapy. She, too, is in remission. Cancer has affected numerous family members, so that fact only added to my fear and anxiety. Although I had pretty much convinced myself that this lump was a result of abnormal hormones, there was still that fear of “what could be”. Fortunately, my sneaking suspicion was correct when the doctor ruled out breast cancer. There was certainly a lump present but it was benign, and my rib was also being felt around the lump which only made the lump stick out more upon self-exam. Ladies (& men), my advice to you: 1) conduct a self-exam monthly- it’s imperative to play an active role in your health and by conducting these exams, you can ensure that you understand your body and can signal out when there is something abnormal, and 2) don’t be scared to go to the doctors because you’re scared of finding out the results-do it for you and do it for your family. You will never regret making that decision.
Attached in the entry is some helpful tips when conducting a breast self-exam.
Until next time,
Danielle
