There are several different stages in breast cancer. Please note that if you suspect you may have breast cancer, see your doctor immediately.

The first stage is what is known as non-invasive breast cancer. This typically means that the cancer cells are not yet breaking out of the breast where they started or invading surrounding normal tissue.

The next stage is categorized as invasive, which as one might expect, involves the cancer cells invading surrounding tissue. It should be noted that at this time no lymph nodes are involved.

The third stage in breast cancer is actually subdivided into two: The first is described as the tumor measuring 5 centimeters, with nods clinging together. The next sub-category is where the tumor has spread to the breast skin or lymph nodes. This stage of breast cancer involves inflammation and redness. This stage can sometimes be misdiagnosed as some other type of infection. There may also be a hardening of the breast.

The next and final stage in breast cancer is when the tumor has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body, this is also known as metastatic cancer and would require the most extreme form of treatment.

The best way to avoid this, is through regular self-diagnosis and doctor visits. The earlier it is diagnosed, the quicker and less invasive the treatment can be. The survival rate is much higher as well. As well as the traditional method of treatment, you should look for alternative methods that may be less harmful to the body and help promote an overall vitality. There are also things you can do on a personal level and lifestyle choices you can make that will help to lower your risk of developing breast cancer and ensuring a longer, healthier life.

Laura Guthrie is a former cancer patient who successfully recovered. She now shares her best of the best information to give back.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Laura_Guthrie

Breast cancer is one of the leading forms of cancer in the world today. The being said, it is important to understand and able to identify some of the symptoms of breast cancer. The very first symptom that one may find, is a lump in the breast. Sometimes, it might not be a lump, it could be a change in the shape of the breast or nipple or it could be discharged from the nipple that is bloodstained or it could even be a rash in your armpit.

Other symptoms could include breasts getting red or bumpy, getting hard and sore as well as small hives appearing near the breast. However, some lumps may in fact turn out to be cysts. Cysts are essentially sacs fill with fluid, and harmless in most cases and can be removed by first using a needle to drain the fluid in the cyst. A small sample of tissue can be extracted at this point so that it may be tested for cancerous cells. This process is what is known as a biopsy.

In this short article, I've tried to explain some of the symptoms of breast cancer as well as what else they could be. The important thing here is, if you're in doubt, don't put it off, but see your doctor immediately as he or she will be able to properly diagnose what you have found. Remember, the five most dangerous words in the English language are "maybe it will go away." You should also self-examine your breasts regularly. Above all, listen to your body and what it tells you. The best way to successfully treat any form of breast cancer is to detect it early. Remember, the more you take care of your body, the better it will take care of you!

Laura Guthrie is a former cancer patient who successfully recovered. She now shares her best of the best information to give back.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Laura_Guthrie

As has been discussed in other breast cancer prevention articles, one of the main ways to prevent breast cancer is to eat a healthy diet which is rich in vegetables, fiber and low in fat. However, there has been little mention as to what foods can be eaten that will specifically aid in breast cancer prevention.

The following are my top five foods. This are not listed in any order of importance so feel free to mix and match as it relates to your specific needs and diet.

The first food is tomatoes. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and unsalted help in preventing breast as well as prostate cancer in men. There are also good for helping prevent cardiovascular disease. "The redder, the better" as my Mom used to say.

Next there is nuts. These include peanuts as well as almond fruit. The main benefit can be seen in an increase of good cholesterol while lowering the bad cholesterol. As someone who has this particular problem, this is a good thing. However, you must be careful not to overdo it as you will gain weight.

Another good food is oats. Oats aid in lowering cholesterol and are full of fiber, which helps in digestion as well. A recommended intake is 35 grams.

One of the absolute best foods to eat, not just for breast cancer prevention but for general vitality is garlic. Garlic is rich in antioxidants, and can help prevent other forms of cancer as well. Garlic is one of the best choices one can make when designing a healthy diet.

Lastly, wine is helpful as well. Red wine specifically contains tannin, which can inhibit bacterial growth. It contains Vitamin C, E, and carotene, has anti-oxidation function, can effectively prevent cataracts, immune barriers, artery atherosclerosis, cardiovascular and cerebral vascular diseases and cancers. A glass a day is recommended.

Laura Guthrie is a former cancer patient who successfully recovered. She now shares her best of the best information to give back.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Laura_Guthrie