Breast exam self

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was just doing usual check of breasts,  I had tumour removed from right breast back in November,  the breast is somewhat odd shaped lumps I think are scar tissue ,mild lymphoedema and pain of varying levels,still cant sleep on that side, but I am not sure what to look for during checks as its all lumpy and bumpy already...?

also ,sorry, my left breast is also lumpy and a little sore under arm,but I do have fybromyalgia so possibly that, only differance is in the nipple, it sort of pulls downwards and if lay down it sinks into breast ,around it is all hollow feeling . can the breast cancer move over to other side ?

  • Hi Julie Too

    Welcome to our Online Community.  My name is Tricia and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists .

    I hope the surgery for your breast cancer went well last November. It sounds like you have been left with a few side effects from the treatment such as the scar tissue, mild lymphoedema  and pain at times. I hope this is all manageable.

    It is good to be doing  breast checks post treatment. I understand how it can feel difficult to know what to look for when your breasts are lumpy and bumpy. It’s about getting used to how your breasts feel and what is ‘your normal’. I imagine you may be on follow-up after treatment  in which case you should let your team know if you find anything that feels different.  If you are not on follow up it would be a case of seeing your Gp.

    It sounds like you feel that your left breast feels different more recently with an element of soreness under the arm and how the nipple is pulling downwards. Therefore, I would suggest that you do contact the team next week to let them know and they can arrange an assessment of your left breast to check there are no concerns and hopefully provide reassurance.

    As you say you have fibromyalgia that can cause other health concerns.

    You can never rule out a Second primary diagnosis of breast cancer   in your other breast, as you have a slightly higher risk but it doesn’t mean you will ever have further cancer in either breast.

    Being vigilant, as you are checking your breasts and attending any follow up tests is the best way forward and if there was ever any further cancer, finding it early is always the best option.

    There are many elements regarding life after breast cancer treatment and I hope that you have some support from family and friend.

    Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch at any time.

    Sending best wishes,

     

    Tricia
    Macmillan Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email

     

     Ref : TT/KR