Finding a problem with your breasts does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer. Breasts change regularly for various reasons, including pregnancy, breast-feeding and menopause, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. In most cases, the problems are minor. One major problem, however, is breast cancer. Various techniques to diagnose breast problems can differentiate between the two, allowing for early detection of breast cancer. The earlier doctors detect this disease, the higher your chances of survival are.
Step 1
Perform regular breast self-exams. Breast self-exams allow you to become familiar with the normal shape and feel of your breast, allowing you to notice any changes you need to report to your doctor. According to Breastcancer.org, this is a useful method and essential screening method when used in combination with physical exams by your doctor and mammograms.
Stand in front of a mirror in a room with good light, and place your arms at your side. Look for any redness or dimpling in the breast, as well as unusual discharge from the nipple, or changes in size or shape of your breast. Once complete, lie on your back and place one arm behind your head. Use the opposite hand to feel the breast. Start at the top of your breast, moving your fingers slowly around the outside in a large circular motion. Continue until doing this, moving down the breast a little farther until you feel all your breast tissue. Lower your arm, switch sides and repeat. Breastcancer.org states that 20 percent of the time, women discover breast cancer through self-exams.
Step 2
Get a mammogram every one to two years. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends you undergo a mammogram every one to two years if you are between the ages of 40 to 49. If you are 50 or older, you need to undergo the test once a year. This test examines breast tissue using an X-ray, and is able to find small lumps before you can feel them. In some cases, the abnormality might be a noncancerous cyst that causes pain, swelling, itching and tenderness.
Step 3
Make an appointment for an ultrasonography. An ultrasonography is a test that uses sound waves to create photos of the breast. It gives your doctor greater insight, allowing him to examine the lump further. If it's solid, it may be cancerous. If fluid-filled, chances are it is a noncancerous cyst.
Step 4
Make an appointment for an aspiration exam. If your doctor believes the lump is a fluid-filled cyst, an aspiration might be the next step for you. This test removes fluid from the cyst for the doctor to examine. In most cases, no more tests are necessary if the fluid is clear, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Step 5
Prepare yourself for a biopsy. Your doctor performs a biopsy when he suspects that the lump is cancerous. During this procedure, he removes a small sample of the breast cells to be sent to the laboratory. MayoClinic.com explains that a biopsy not only determines whether the cells are cancerous, it also determines the severity, or stage, of the cancer.
