If you think you have breast cancer, there’s nothing to be afraid of. You don't know how much common breast cancer is among women. When diagnosed during the early stages it is very much treatable at the best multispeciality hospital in Ahmedabad. So don't worry!
Breast cancer is caused by cells in the breast growing out of control. Yes, we understand that getting a breast cancer diagnosis can be scary and difficult to deal with at first.
That’s why we came up with this guide to assist you. So, let’s get started, shall we?
First Off, What is Breast Cancer?
As you can see from the name, breast cancer happens inside the breast cell. Now brush and not something attributed only to women. Men also have breast tissue under the chest muscles.
Let's make this easy to understand. Think about how milk is produced inside the breasts. There are a bunch of mammary gland lobules that look like how grapes are branched. grapes Think of your breasts like a bunch of grapes. They are altogether grouped in sections called lobes, like bunches on a vine.
Thin tubes called ducts act like little straws, carrying the milk made in the lobules up to the nipple. The nipple sits in the middle of a darker area called the areola.
Breasts are mostly made up of fat. There's also special tissue to hold everything in place and keep it comfy. Around your breasts, there are tiny bean-shaped things called lymph nodes. They're like filters that clean out waste from your body.
Breast cancer can happen when cells in the breast grow abnormally. These abnormal cells can sometimes form a lump that you can feel. You can feel a lump in any part of your breast and immediately decide and get a check. This is because breast cancer is more common among women than men.
How Many Types of Breast Cancer are There?
The reason we explained the internal anatomy of a breast above is to help you understand the types of breast cancer.
- Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): This is a non-invasive cancer where cells are in the ducts
- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): This is the most common type, starting in the ducts and spreading
- Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): his type starts in the lobules and can spread to other areas
What are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
So, there are some symptoms that you can trace before getting a diagnosis.
- A lump in the breast or armpit
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin changes on the breast, like dimpling
- Nipple discharge that isn’t breast milk
- Pain in the breast or nipple area
If you notice any of these symptoms, viewing a doctor is important.
How to Confirm the Right Diagnosis?
The above symptoms can be anything. The best way to determine if it is cancer is by getting these tests done.
- Mammogram: An X-ray of the breast is used to find early signs of cancer
- Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create pictures of the breast tissue
- Biopsy: This involves taking a small sample of breast tissue to look for cancer cells
What are the Treatment Options?
Once you are sure that you have breast cancer, you can start on a treatment plan.
- Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy waves to kill cancer cells
- Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells or avoid their growth
- Surgery: Removing the tumor or the entire breast (mastectomy)
- Hormone Therapy: Blocks hormones that fuel A few types of breast cancer
- Targeted Therapy: Uses drugs to target specific cancer cells without harming normal cells
The breast cancer treatment plan depends upon the degree and stage of your cancer.
What are the Risk Factors?
Some biological factors can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
- The risk increases as you get older
- Women are at a higher risk than men
- Mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can raise the risk
- Having close relatives with breast cancer increases your risk
- Long-term use of Hormone Replacement Therapy can increase the risk
Emotional Support is Also Important!
The breast cancer treatment procedure will have a toll on you mentally. During this time, you need emotional support from your friends, family, and close ones. You can also look for support by joining a support group.
Understanding breast cancer is very important for everyone nowadays. Proper breast cancer awareness and education can save lives. Always consult with the best multispeciality hospital in Ahmedabad for the best advice.