Why Breast Exams are so Important

breast examination in Houston

Breast Imaging

The Pink Door Imaging for Breast and Gynecological Imaging offers patients comprehensive breast imaging screening and diagnostic services. The Pink Door Imaging offers breast ultrasound, a non-radiological exam performed to identify tumors or abnormalities that may not be seen on a mammogram. Diagnostic mammography is a supervised breast examination in Houston tailored to evaluate a specific breast complaint, a symptom or abnormality that is identified on a screening mammogram. A 3D digital mammography is an advanced screening and diagnostic mammography technology that reveals abnormalities that might otherwise be obscured by dense breast tissue. A breast biopsy in a minimally invasive procedure that diagnoses an abnormality as cancerous or benign and is performed under ultrasound imaging guidance.

Early Detection is Key

The two most common methods of early detection include a clinical breast exam and a mammogram. A clinical breast exam is performed during your routine physical. Your doctor will check the breast and under the arms for any lumps or unusual changes. Mammograms are x-rays of the breast tissue and can often detect lumps that are too small for you or your doctor to feel in a clinical or self-breast examination.

Self-breast examinations are also a crucial tool in early detection however they should not take the place of mammograms and clinical examinations. You can check your breasts by looking in a mirror and by standing and lying in various positions to feel for lumps and look for obviously physical changes.

Other breast cancer symptoms that you should watch out for include:

• Changes in the skin, like puckering or dimpling, or changes in the shape of the breast.
• Nipple discharge, especially if it is bloody or greenish in color, or if it is watery or milky and occurs without pressure on the nipple or breast.
• The area around the nipple becomes darker or there is a change in the color or feel of the skin.
• They nipple begins to draw inward or becomes crusty or develops scaly skin.
• Any breast problem that lasts more than two weeks or pain that continues and is not caused by an injury.
• Signs of infection such as pain, swelling, redness or warmth.

If you detect a lump in your breast, armpit or chest, especially if it is hard and unlike the rest of the surrounding tissues, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Breast Examination in Houston

Dr. Shetty is a Clinical Professor, a fellow of the American College of Radiology, American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine and the Society of Breast Imaging. He has been practicing in the medical center for more than 26 years and has interpreted more than 200,000 mammograms. He has published several journal articles and authored three text books on breast and gynecological cancer screening and diagnosis. He maintains a passionate dedication to his practice and is a recognized speaker at national and international conferences.

Dr. Shetty works closely with patients and referring physicians to help educate patients on all findings. Patients can make informed decisions based on his expertise and Dr. Shetty is dedicated to the prevention, screening and diagnosis of breast cancer. The entire Pink Door Imaging staff works hard to stay at the forefront of diagnostic care. Take charge of your health today and contact Dr. Shetty for a breast imaging examination in Houston today.

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