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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honour survivors, remember those we’ve lost and take action toward early detection and better health outcomes. At Coda Pharmacy, we’re proud to stand with our community in raising awareness, supporting education, and promoting screening and prevention. In today’s blog we will cover the importance of early detection, common and uncommon symptoms to look out for, treatment and support.
Early Detection
Early detection plays a vital role in improving breast cancer survival rates. When cancer is found at an early stage, it is often smaller, easier to treat, and less likely to have spread to other parts of the body. This means that treatment options can be more effective, and the chances of a full recovery are significantly higher.
It’s important for women to know what’s normal for their bodies and to perform regular self-checks. While self-exams aren’t a substitute for professional screening, they can help you notice any unusual changes early on, such as lumps, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or persistent pain.
Most health professionals recommend mammograms every 1–2 years for women aged 40 and over, but screening frequency can vary depending on your personal and family medical history. Always speak to your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you’re unsure about when to start or how often to be screened.
If you notice any changes in your breasts, don’t wait, book an appointment with your GP. Early action truly saves lives.
Common Symptoms
- A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area that feels different from surrounding tissue
- Changes in breast size or shape, or swelling in part of the breast
- Skin changes such as dimpling, puckering, redness, or scaling
- A nipple that turns inward (inverted nipple) or changes position
- Nipple discharge (other than breast milk), which may be clear, yellow, or bloody
- Pain or tenderness in the breast or nipple area that doesn’t go away
- Changes in skin texture around the nipple or areola (crusting, flaking, or thickening)
- Swelling or lumps near the collarbone or armpit, which can indicate spread to lymph nodes
Less Common Symptoms
- Swelling in the arm or hand on the same side as the affected breast (possible lymph node involvement)
- Itchy, scaly rash or irritation on the nipple or areola (could indicate Paget’s disease of the breast)
- Persistent breast pain not related to the menstrual cycle
- Changes in breast temperature, with one breast feeling warmer or heavier than the other
- A sudden increase in breast size or fullness
- Open sores or ulcers on the breast that do not heal
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue (may occur in advanced stages)
- Visible veins on the breast that were not there before
While these symptoms are less common, they should never be ignored. If you notice any unusual changes, it’s important to speak with your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.
Treatment for Breast Cancer in the UK
Treatment for breast cancer can vary from person to person, depending on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, its characteristics, and an individual’s overall health and preferences. Care is provided by a team of specialists who work together to create a personalised treatment plan, which may include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted treatments. For detailed information on the types of treatment available, how decisions are made, and what to expect, visit the NHS website’s guide to breast cancer treatment.
Support
A breast cancer diagnosis can be extremely scary, but support is available every step of the way. Across the UK, there are many organisations dedicated to providing emotional, practical, and financial help for those affected by breast cancer, including patients, families, and carers.
Charities such as Breast Cancer Now, Macmillan Cancer Support, and Cancer Research UK offer helplines, online communities, counselling, and guidance on navigating treatment and recovery. Local NHS services may also provide access to specialist nurses, support groups, and rehabilitation programmes to help manage the physical and emotional effects of treatment.
At Coda Pharmacy, we’re here to listen and help coordinate your medication needs during and after treatment. With the right care and community around you, there is strength and support for every stage of the journey.
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Coda Pharmacy is here to support you every step of the way. From offering expert advice to delivering your NHS prescriptions free of charge. If you have any questions about what you have read in this article or any of the services that Coda Pharmacy can provide you with, please do not hesitate to reach out and contact us here.