Amanda Abbington health: The Sherlock star’s cancer scare – the symptoms to spot

Amanda Abbington discovered a lump in her breast after dropping her kids at school one day. The actress was sent to a specialist breast unit where she was told the lump needed to be removed quickly, as it was unsure whether it was malignant.

Abbington, who was in a relationship with fellow actor Martin Freeman for 16 years, also found out during the actor’s 18-month shoot for The Hobbit movies in New Zealand.

“I said I’d be fine, but he was desperately worried. It was horrible for him,” she told The Mirror.

After finding out her lump needed to be removed, Abbington burst into tears and though, “’Oh no. I’m going to die. I won’t see my children grow up’.”

But she said she cried tears of joy when she was told the lump was a benign milk gland tumour.

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She continued: “When I got the result I burst into tears of sheer relief. What happened has made me value my life so much.

“Work is great, of course, but your family and health really are everything.”

While Abbington’s breast cancer was benign, it’s important to recognise the first signs of the disease.

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK, with about one in eight women diagnosed with the disease during their lifetime.

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The first symptom of breast cancer that most women notice is a lump or an area of thickened tissue in the breast, according to the NHS.

“Most breast lumps are not cancerous, but it’s always best to have them checked by a doctor,” it advises.

You should see a GP if you notice any of the following signs:

  • A new lump or area of thickened tissue in either breast that was not there before
  • A change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
  • A discharge of fluid from either of your nipples
  • A lump or swelling in either of your armpits
  • Dimpling on the skin of your breasts
  • A rash on or around your nipple
  • A change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast

“Fibroadenomas are usually painless, but sometimes they may feel tender or even painful, particularly just before a period.”

Breast cysts are one of the most common causes of a breast lump, according to the site, and can develop in tier one or both breasts.

It explains: “Breast cysts can feel soft or hard and can be any size, ranging from a few millimetres to several centimetres. They’re usually oval or round in shape and can develop quickly anywhere in the breast.

“For some people, cysts can feel uncomfortable and even painful. Before a period, cysts may become larger and feel sore and tender as hormone levels change. However, many women can have cysts and not be able to feel them at all.”

If you experience any changes in your breasts, contact your GP.

source: express.co.uk