As we travel on our Wellness Journey it is important to be on the lookout for health enemies. They can be so well disguised that they appear harmless and we ignore the warning signs.
The trick is to see these health enemies before they attack you with all their power. Medical research has come a long way and this gives us the ability to fight our health enemies and protect our health. Our responsibility is to observe our own bodies. That means paying attention to see or learn something about the warning signs that something may be harming our bodies. When we observe we can prevent conditions or start early treatment and protect thus our bodies.
1. What must I observe?
- a) SKIN – The skin is our body’s largest organ.
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells that can cause great damage to our health. It most often develops on skin that is exposed to the sun, such as on the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms and hands, and on the legs. However, it can also occur in areas of your skin not ordinarily exposed to sunlight.
Observe:
- Constantly itchy areas of skin
- Rashes reoccurring
- A change in the colour of the skin area
- Scabbing sores that heal and return
Also, keep an eye on moles for any changes in shape or colour.
- b) BREAST – Although breast cancer occurs almost entirely in women, men can get breast cancer too.
Observe:
- Changes in the size, shape or appearance of a breast
- Feeling a lump or thickening of the breast tissue
- Changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling
- Nipple changes in shape or texture, or bloody discharge, and flaking or peeling of the nipple skin
2. How do I observe?
On our Wellness Journey, we recommend three observation methods to do a basic health check-up.
Self-controlled observation – own responsibility
Examine your skin and breasts regularly. Write down what you see and report changes to your doctor. Use mirrors to inspect your face, neck, ears and scalp. Check your chest and the tops and undersides of your arms and hands. Look and feel the front and back of your legs and feet, including the soles and the spaces between your toes. Make it a fun exercise and relax your body. Do not rush it. Thank every body part that you touch for working so hard. Your body needs and deserves this attention.
A breast self-exam is an inspection of your breasts where you use your fingers to feel for changes in the breast. Also, look for changes as explained earlier. Contact a doctor if you are unsure about a lump or a change in your breast.
Natural observations – participation of loved ones
Use this observation to involve a loved one, family member or friend to assist you in taking care of your body. Give them permission to tell you if they see changes in your skin or in your breasts. Although this is a personal and private space it could save your life. You can do the same for someone else. This is an opportunity to deepen relationships with care. Do not be embarrassed – be empowered to help someone else.
Professional observations
When you do discover a change on your skin or in your breast, it is recommended to see a professional. The health profession has a variety of test options they can perform, such as a skin biopsy or a mammogram, to examine your beautiful body and assist it in healing. When we detect the enemy early, the chances are better to eliminate it.
3. Tips from Walker
Although I love my human buddy, I hate it when she takes me to the vet for check-ups. I try my best to avoid it by barking, hiding and pretending to be sleeping. But this is why it is important:
- My human buddy also has regular check-ups (not at the vet, but anyway). She knows I need her, so she has to be healthy to take good care of me. Is there someone that needs you too?
- I want to be healthy protect her and be the best dog I can be. Do you want to be the best you?
- When we are both healthy we can do so many more fun things together and enjoy life. What fun things do you still want to experience?
“There are no secrets, no formulas. It’s just a matter of looking carefully.” Colin Poole
Sarlene Horn
https://www.mayoclinic.org
Photo credit: Esther Lategan