What is breast cancer?
The cancer affecting the breast tissues is known as breast cancer. Breast cancer usually develops from the ducts and lobes of the mammary gland. When it develops from the duct is known as ductal carcinomas whereas cancer developing from lobes is known as lobular carcinoma. Any unusual changes in the breast should be noticed immediately to arrive at earlier diagnosis.
Breast cancer and breast-feeding
Breastfeeding is a complex task faced by lactating women. It is one of the beneficial task for both the mother and the baby. Breastfeeding reduces the risk of developing cancer. Pregnancy and breastfeeding reduces the number of menstrual cycles which in turn results in reduced exposure to hormonal changes. It also changes the mammary cells and prevent them from turning into carcinogenic. Developing breast cancer while breastfeeding is extremely rare, and contribute to 3% of all the cases. For medications, visit 3MEDS-Generic anti-cancer medicines at low cost Delhi.
Women are often aware of the normal feeling of their breast while breastfeeding. Breasts tend to be heavy and full due to the milk in them. It may also leads to development of lumps due to the collection of milk. Breastfeeding may cause symptoms similar to that of breast cancer which interferes with the early diagnosis.
Possible causes of lumps in breastfeeding women:
There are various causes which may result in the development of lump in breastfeeding woman.
· Engorgement:
It is the sensation of discomfort and heaviness of the breast during the early periods of lactation. Initial days of lactation results in engorgement if there is inadequate draining of milk from the breasts. Once the baby is breastfed, the sensation disappears and the breast returns to normal stage. Prolonged discomfort shouldn’t be ignored, and consulted immediately.
· Mastitis:
It is the inflammation of the breast due to ductal blockage. At times, the milk may get blocked in the ducts which results in swelling and redness of the breast. The milk protein in the blocked duct leaks into the surrounding tissue. Some of the symptoms of mastitis include lump, redness, fever, and shiver. These women are suggested to feed the milk to allow the flow of milk and disruption of the block.
· Plugged ducts:
Mammary glands contains cells called alveoli which produces the milk and then transfers it to the duct and to the nipples. Thickened milk, or infrequent breast feeding may result in blocking of the duct and hence the pain. These women must continue to breastfeed to assist in dislodging the block.
· Abscess:
It is the complication as a result of untreated mastitis. The abscess is the dangerous complication encountered by breastfeeding woman. Abscess is the collection of pus and bacteria in a closed cavity which causes tenderness, redness and swelling. It requires medical attention. Incision and drainage along with antibiotics will treat the abscess.
· Galactoceles:
These are small cysts found in breastfeeding women which gradually disappears after the lactation period. Depending upon the amount of milk in the breasts, these cysts may appear and disappear. The cysts are painless.
Early symptoms of breast cancer:
· Unusual nipple discharge
· Prolonged pain in the breasts
· Skin changes of the breast
· Changes in size and shape
· Redness of the breast
· Skin puckering
· Itching and rashes
· Swelling and Warmth of the breast
When do you need to consult?
Any of the above symptoms lasting longer than a week requires medical consultation.
Most of the times it is non-cancerous. If you are diagnosed with cancer; your doctor may recommend you to stop breastfeeding or delay certain treatment procedures.
What you must know about the treatment while breastfeeding?
Having diagnosed with breast cancer while breastfeeding; you may require surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy.
Surgery and breastfeeding
Based on the type of procedure, you may resume your breastfeeding before or after the surgery. The untreated breast can be used to feed the baby. Surgery with radiotherapy results in failure to produce milk. If you are advised medications, consult your doctor for safe medications. Buy cancer medicines online at low cost, from 3MEDS.
Chemotherapy and breastfeeding
Chemotherapy involves administration of powerful drugs which may produce ill-effects in the baby if breastfed. Hence, your doctor may suggest you to temporary stop the breastfeeding.
Radiation and breastfeeding
Radiotherapy involves subjection of high-intensity radiation to the affected area. This results in loss of certain functions such as production of milk. Depending on the type of radiation, you may resume the breastfeeding or use the unaffected breast to feed the baby.
Apart from this, you may experience treatment side effects.
Outlook:
Breast cancer in younger women is challenging especially for breastfeeding mothers. Do not ignore your symptoms and immediately report them to your doctor. Early diagnosis can reduce the severity of the cancer treatment. You may still continue to breastfeed the baby with the guidance from your doctor. Ask your doctor for unique treatment protocol and possible alternatives which will not affect your breastfeeding to baby. Trust 3MEDS-Best online pharmacy in Delhi, for your medications.