Doing a regular breast self-exam is the best way to discover changes early. While examining your breasts, nipple and areola every month, check for these symptoms. Be sure to notify your healthcare provider of any changes.

Breast Self-Exam: What to Look For		Yes		No
Are there any noticeable changes in the size or shape? If yes, does it look:
Dimpled?
Puckered?
Scaly?
Like an orange peel?
Is the color more red than usual?
Are veins more visible near the skin's surface?
Is there more sensitivity? If yes, does this include:
Tenderness?
Itching?
Pain?
Is there is a lump or mass? If yes, is it:
Firm?
Hard?
Irregular in shape?
Is there is a discharge from the nipples? If yes, is it:
Bloody?
Clear?
Yellow?
Green?

 

Other methods of detection and prevention may include breast examinations by a medical expert, mammograms, anti-estrogen drugs, or preventive mastectomy (removing one or both breasts before cancer develops). For more information about these options, talk to your healthcare provider.

Learn more about mammograms.

Go to the main Kearney Breast Center webpage.

Go to the main Cancer Center webpage.