Annual Mammograms

I had my first mammogram when I was 37 years old. I was surprised when my primary care doctor informed me about it. Apparently, they want to have a base reference on which to compare my future results in case one needs to be looked at closer. When I turned 40, I started having annual mammograms. My first experience was not uncomfortable nor painful. I was pleasantly surprised considering I've been hearing stories about painful mammograms. I can't say that about my last two exams though, it was so uncomfortable. There was even a point that I thought I was going to pass out. :( Good thing I didn't!

I read somewhere that you should schedule the test for a time when your breasts are least likely to be tender. They're often least tender during the week after your menstrual period. Your breasts are most likely to be tender the week before and the week during your period.

If you have breast implants, those can interfere with the image of a tumor. It You should have your mammogram at a facility that does a large number of these kind of examinations. It is best to have a radiologist that is experienced in reading mammograms from women with implants.

Along with the annual mammograms, women should also do a self-breast exam regularly. I'm ashamed to admit that I'm very bad at doing this. I know that I need and should do it but it just doesn't happen. Do you regularly check your breasts for lumps?

How To Prepare For A Mammogram:
*Don't apply deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, creams or perfumes
under your arms or on your breasts. Metallic particles in powders and deodorants
could be visible on your mammogram and cause confusion.

*Taking an over-the-counter pain medication, such as aspirin, acetaminophen
(Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), about an hour before your
mammogram might ease the discomfort of the test.

What can you expect during mammography?
At the testing facility, you're given a gown and asked to remove neck jewelry
and clothing from the waist up. It's a good idea to wear a two-piece outfit that day.

For the procedure itself, you stand in front of an X-ray machine specially designed for mammography. The technician places one of your breasts on a platform that holds the
X-ray film and raises or lowers the platform to match your height. The technician helps
you position your head, arms and torso to allow an unobstructed view of your breast.

Your breast is gradually pressed against the platform by a clear plastic plate. Pressure
is applied for a few seconds to spread out the breast tissue. The pressure isn't harmful,
but you may find it uncomfortable or even painful. If you have too much discomfort,
inform the technician.

Your breast must be compressed to even out its thickness and permit the X-rays to
penetrate the breast tissue. The pressure also holds your breast still to decrease
blurring from movement and minimizes the dose of radiation needed. During the
brief X-ray exposure, you'll be asked to stand still and hold your breath.

After images are made of both your breasts, you may be asked to wait while the
technician checks the quality of the images. If the views are inadequate for technical
reasons, you may have to repeat part of the test. The entire procedure usually takes
less than 30 minutes. Afterward, you may dress and resume normal activity.

Source: Mayo Clinic

Walk For Your Health

We've heard it all before, if you just walk more each day, you will help your heart stay healthy. But the question is, do we actually follow it? I know how hard it is to take that time away from our busy schedule but we just have to do it for ourselves. Moms are so busy taking care of their families that they forget to take care of themselves. We are always thinking of our kids and husbands that we put ourselves last. We should start thinking of taking care of our body if we want to stay healthy. Spring is upon us so we have no excuse not to go outdoors and take a walk each day. It will be good for our body and gives us time to relax.

It is also important to remember to take extra pre-cautions if you are out an about everyday. Always put on some sunblock or sunscreen to protect yourself from harmful UVB and UVA rays. Do you think you have mesothelioma? If so, you may want to read some information regarding mesothelioma lung cancer. By contacting mesothelioma attorneys you'll be well prepared with the knowledge you need to get the compensation you deserve.

Benefits of walking
Walking for fitness can help you achieve a number of important health benefits. For example, you can:

Reduce your risk of a heart attack. Walking keeps your heart healthy by lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) and raising high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol). A regular walking program also reduces your risk of developing high blood pressure, a factor that also contributes to heart disease.

Manage your blood pressure. If you already have high blood pressure, walking may reduce it.
Reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Regular exercise reduces your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. If you're a woman, overweight and at a high risk of diabetes, walking can improve your body's ability to process sugar (glucose tolerance).

Manage your diabetes. If you already have type 2 diabetes, taking part in a regular walking program can improve your body's ability to process sugar, lower your blood sugar, reduce your risk of heart disease and help you live longer.

Manage your weight. Walking burns calories, which can help you manage your weight. For example, middle-aged women who walk more than 10,000 steps a day have lower levels of body fat than do women who are less active.

Manage stress and boost your spirits. Going for a brisk walk is a great way to reduce stress. Regular walking also can reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.
Stay strong and active. As you get older, walking for physical fitness can prevent falls, help you stay mobile and maintain your independence.

Source: Mayo Clinic