TV doctor and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Dr Punam Krishan has shared the news of her own breast cancer diagnosis, revealing she received the shocking news five months ago.
The GP and regular contributor to BBC's Morning Live explained that, despite her extensive medical background, the diagnosis brought profound shock and trauma. Dr Punam emphasised she acted on a persistent 'gut feeling' that something was wrong, which led her to seek medical checks.
Urgent call for awareness and action
Dr Krishan is now using her platform to urge other women to listen to their bodies and seek medical advice promptly. She stressed that acting on concerns can be lifesaving. The doctor has now completed her treatment and describes herself as 'healing', taking each day as it comes.
Primary symptoms of breast cancer
Knowing what changes to look for is a critical first step in early detection. The main symptoms associated with breast cancer include:
- A new lump, swelling, or thickening in your breast, chest area, or armpit.
- Changes to the skin on your breast, such as dimpling (which can resemble orange peel) or redness.
- A noticeable change in the size, shape, or contour of one or both breasts.
- Nipple discharge that occurs when you are not pregnant or breastfeeding, which may contain blood.
- A change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming inverted or changing position.
- Persistent pain in your breast or armpit that does not go away. It is important to note that breast pain that comes and goes is usually not linked to cancer.
Understanding secondary breast cancer symptoms
When breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body, it is known as secondary or metastatic breast cancer. The symptoms experienced depend on where the cancer has spread, though it most commonly affects the bones, liver, lungs, or brain.
General symptoms that may indicate secondary breast cancer include:
- Feeling constantly tired or having no energy.
- Experiencing a loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss.
- A general feeling of being unwell without a clear cause.
- Persistent feelings of nausea or episodes of sickness.
- Difficulty sleeping or changes to your usual sleep pattern.
Dr Punam Krishan's courageous decision to speak out highlights the vital importance of body awareness and timely medical consultation, regardless of one's professional expertise.
