October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but these tips can be used all year to reduce the physical and mental discomfort and stress from a mammogram.

Before the exam:

1. Follow the pre-mammogram instructions to a T. For instance … “Don’t wear deodorant, perfumes, or lotions etc., because if they produce specks on the films, then you may have to go for another test. And who wants to do that?”

2. Decrease salt intake.  Avoid salty foods the week prior to your mammogram. These foods can cause bloating and fluid retention in your breasts, and lead to more pain and discomfort during your exam. If you are still getting your period, try to time the exam when your breasts are the least tender and sensitive – usually 10 days before or after your period.

3. Avoid caffeine. Energy drinks and pumpkin spiced lattes can cause tender breasts. If you have cysts in your breast, known as fibroadenomas these cysts are very sensitive to caffeine. Therefore, definitely stay keep your caffeine intake levels low 48 hours before your mammogram.

4. EMLA (Lidocaine/prilocaine) cream – Ask your doctor if he or she may prescribe EMLA cream in advance. EMLA is a topical anesthetic that numbs the skin. You can rub it on about 30-45 minutes before your mammogram, and wipe it off before the test. It may not rid 100% of the pain, but may decrease it.

5. Pre-exam painkillers – Take a few Advil or Tylenol at least 30min before the procedure to decrease pain or discomfort.

During the exam:

1. Wear the right shoes. Bring flats or comfy shoes (like flip-flops) if you choose to arrive in heels, or simply arrive in comfortable shoes. This will make it easier for you to “get into position” and hold it, therefore making the test go faster.

2. Go to your happy place. Try the power of positive thinking and meditation before and during the test. You CAN GET THROUGH THIS, and you are doing this for your health!

3. Bring music. Try an iPod with small ear buds and — if they are ok with you having them in place — listen to music during the procedure.

4. Bring hand warmers. Throw some hand warmers in your purse and rub them on you to warm you up before they place your breasts on the cold plates. Also ask if it possible for the plates to be warmed, for a warm gown, or the room to heated up.

5.  Speak up. Always remember to speak up! This is your body and your health! Ask questions, let them know you’re in pain, etc. The technician may be able to adjust the machine, compression, and other things to ease your discomfort.

After the exam: Celebrate! You just finished your mammogram!

You’re excited … you’re on vacation, and it’s optimal sun tanning time, you lay your towel down on the sand, and flip up the dog-tagged page you are reading in ‘50 Shades of Grey’ and the cutest waiter comes over and asks if you would like a drink … you pause for a moment and say .. “Why yes, I will have a refreshing lemon drop martini.”

Because you winked at the cutie as he took your drink order, that martini glass is topped off – you’re thrilled – that 1 drink you say was well worth the money. As you take that first sip of your refreshing adult beverage a small amount spills on your hands and legs. Thinking nothing of it, you rub that sweet nectar into your golden tanned skin …. Here’s comes the part where I’m screaming in slow motion ..

“Nooooooooooo” ….. You want to know why? … Phytophotodermatitis is why! Huh?

Huh, is right not only do you probably not know how to pronounce this word you probably have no idea what it is … well here’s the deal:

When that lime or lemon juice comes into contact with your skin and your skin is exposed to the sun it can lead to a dark streaky rash on your skin that may last for MONTHS!! Yes, months!!!

The culprits responsible for the darkened skin rash are called psoralens. Psoralens are found in plant juices; when they come into contact with the skin and then excessive sun exposure they cause a phototoxic rash AKA enhanced sunburn.

Other plants that can cause this dark pigmented rash include:

Lemons, limes, bergamot, celery, carrots, parsley, fennel, dill, parsley, fig, buttercup and mustard.

Phytophotodermatitis looks like a chemical burn or a rash on the skin. And for those of us who enjoy sun-splashed beach vacations spilling any food on drink that has lemon or lime in it can lead to streaked marks down the affected body part. Not to mention if you are preparing or eating a tasty treat that has plant juices with psoralens your hands or mouth can be affected too. The rash usually appears 36-72 hours after exposure to the sun and the offending plant juice. The rash ranges in size and can be small reddish bumps to large blisters that look like second degree burns. In severe cases there can even be nausea, vomiting, and fever associated with the rash. Usually the initial rash lasts for 1-2 weeks. As it begins to heal it leaves darkened brownish grey-pigmented marks called postinflammatory hyperpigmentation that can last for months.

Before you freak out there is treatment! Avoid further sun exposure and definitely use sunscreen to decrease the chances the marks will darken further if you must be outside. Most importantly schedule an appointment to see a dermatologist. And from now perhaps order a vodka and tonic while sunbathing.