‘Baywatch’ Star Nicole Eggert, 51, Had ‘Terrible Pain’ & Weight Gain, Which She Dismissed As Menopause, Before Breast Cancer Diagnosis— How Self-Exams Can Help

Before getting making an appointment with her doctor, Eggert had experienced “terrible pain” in her left breast in October. Additionally, she gained 25 lbs during in three months. But she likened the symptoms to menopause, which is described by the National Institute on Aging as a normal part of aging which typically begins in women between the ages of 45 and 55. Symptoms of menopause include, body changes, hot flashes, and aches and pains.

Explained to People how she ultimately decided to get checked after finding a lump during a breast self-exam, Eggert said, “It really was throbbing and hurting. I immediately went to my general practitioner and she told me I had to immediately go get it looked at. But the problem was I just couldn’t get an appointment. Everything was booked. So I had to wait until the end of November to get it done.”

RELATED: What You Need to Know About Breast Self-Exams

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She was screened for cancer with a mammogram and three biopsies. Her pathology report ultimately revealed she was positive for breast cancer.

Eggert said, “This journey’s been rough for me. This hasn’t been a breezy sale through life. “I always read inspirational quotes and corny stuff, but it gets me through.”

The American actress, who will need to have the cancer surgically removed and doesn’t know whether the cancer has spread, is currently waiting for her oncologist to decide when her treatment (chemotherapy and radiation) plan will begin.

However, it’s important to note that the rare type of breast cancer Eggert has, is often slow growing and low grade, according to Breast Cancer Now.

As for the lump she found in her breast, Eggert added, “I can definitely feel it. It’s there. It needs to be taken out. So it’s just a matter of do I have to do treatment before the surgery or can they perform the surgery and then I do the treatment after.

“I have panics where I’m like, just get this out of me. You sit there and it’s in you and you’re like, every second that passes and it’s inside of me. It’s growing, and you’re just like, you just want it out.”

In addition to worrying about the cancer spreading, Eggert, who has two daughters, 12-year-old Keegan and 25-year-old Dilyn, 25, admits what she’s most scared about her children not having her around. But she remains optimistic, saying “there’s just no succumbing to this.”

“This is something I have to get through. This is something that I have to beat. She needs me more than anything and anybody,” she concluded.

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It’s great to see Eggert has an immense amount of support from friends, family, and fans as she embarks on her cancer journey, something which can easily be seen by visiting a GoFundMe page created to help the actress with her medical bills.

Eggert’s friend Mindy Molinary writes in the crowdfunding page, which has already raised more than $17,000, “My dear friend, Nicole Eggert, was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and needs our help.

“It’s been a long time since “Charles in Charge” and “Baywatch.” As a single mom, she’s had to struggle financially to raise her two daughters. She still has a little one at home and she is terrified of not being able to afford the treatments and surgery necessary while also keeping a roof over their heads. She’s lost both her parents and doesn’t have any family to lean on or help her with this situation.”

Molinary explained how Eggert’s future will consist of “multiple expensive imaging – CTs, MRIs, Ultrasounds,” as well as lots of doctors visits, seeing oncologists and surgeons.

“Cancer treatments and medications. Her current insurance won’t even scratch the surface of what she needs,” she continued, “She is tenacious and has always found a way to get by, but this is different. She will be unable to work while undergoing surgery and treatments. She has a long, scary road ahead and has a terrible time asking for help.”

Molinary concluded, “Once she is on the road to recovery, she intends to start a non-profit for single parents like herself, without families, who are going through this ordeal. She will be grateful for any contribution. Everything helps. Let’s get Nicole on her way to recovery!”

Talking To Kids About Cancer

Eggert also promoted the GoFundMe link on her Instagram page, writing, “Hope is important because it can make the present moment less difficult to bear.

“If we believe tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hardship today. – Thich Nhat Hnah. Link in bio- Please read and Please share.”

Many fans took to the comments section of the post to wish Eggert the best, with one writing, “Oh Nicole! I am so sorry. You’re such a strong woman and I know you’ve got this. But my Mama heart goes out to you because I know you are thinking of your girls, not you, as we Moms do. Helping as much as I can, reach out if you need anything.”

Another fan commented, “I am sharing on my FB page. As a breast cancer survivor my heart goes out to you. I wish you quick healing and a positive outcome.”

“You are strong and you got this- sending much love and prayers for you on this journey,” a third comment read.

All About Breast Self-Exams

Breast self-exams (BSE) are a simple yet important self-check method that involves observing and feeling the breasts for any changes or abnormalities.

Breast Cancer: Introduction to Prevention & Screening

While they are not a replacement for professional clinical exams or mammograms, BSE can serve as an essential first step in monitoring breast health and detecting any potential concerns, SurvivorNet’s experts explain.

These type of exams play a crucial role in early detection and diagnosis of potential breast conditions, including breast cancer. By performing regular self-examinations, you become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts, making it easier to identify any unusual changes. Early detection of breast cancer can vastly improve treatment outcomes and the chances of successful recovery.

While BSE alone isn’t a guarantee for early breast cancer diagnosis, it serves as a supplementary tool to other screening methods, such as clinical breast exams and mammography.

Here are some key reasons why breast self-exams are important:

• Familiarization with your breasts: Regular BSE helps you understand how your breasts normally look and feel. This knowledge makes it easier to identify changes or abnormalities as they occur.
• Early detection: In some cases, a breast self-exam might lead to the discovery of a lump or other change that could indicate breast cancer or another noncancerous condition. The earlier a problem is identified, the better the chances for successful treatment.
• Empowerment: Taking control of your breast health by performing regular self-exams can empower you and foster a sense of awareness, responsibility, and confidence regarding your well-being.
• Routine health monitoring: Incorporating BSE into your monthly self-care routine helps establish a consistent health-monitoring practice, making it more likely that you will notice any unexpected changes.

It’s important to remember that BSE should never replace professional clinical exams or mammograms. Instead, view these self-exams as a complementary practice to maintain optimum breast health and ensure early detection in case an issue arises. Don’t hesitate to consult your doctor if you notice any changes or abnormalities during your self-examination.

How To Perform Breast Self-Exams

The optimal time to perform a BSE is about a week after the beginning of your menstrual cycle when your breasts are less tender and swollen. If you don’t menstruate, choose a consistent day every month to perform the exam.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to performing a breast self-exam:

• Observe in the mirror: Stand in front of a mirror, undressed from the waist up, with your arms relaxed at your sides. Examine your breasts and nipples for changes in size, shape, or color. Look for any dimpling, puckering, or redness on the skin. Then, raise your arms overhead and examine your breasts from all angles, including with your hands on your hips.
• Palpate while standing: While standing or sitting, use the pads of your three middle fingers to gently press on your breast tissue, moving in small circular motions. Cover your entire breast, from the collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage. Apply light, medium, and firm pressure as you examine each area, feeling for any changes or lumps.
• Examine your nipples: Gently squeeze your nipple between your thumb and index finger. Check for any discharge, and if present, note the color and consistency. Make sure to examine both breasts.
• Palpate while lying down: Lie down flat on your back with a folded towel or small pillow under your right shoulder. Place your right hand behind your head. With your left hand, follow the same palpation process as in step 2, covering the entire breast area. Repeat this process for your left breast, placing a towel or pillow under your left shoulder and switching hands.

Remember, the goal of a breast self-exam is to familiarize yourself with the normal appearance and feel of your breasts. This familiarity will make it easier to detect any changes that may occur, allowing you to take prompt action and consult a doctor if necessary.

Also keep in mind that some changes are normal and may not indicate a serious issue, but it’s always better to be proactive and discuss any concerns with a healthcare professional.

You should consult with your doctor if you notice a new lump, nipple changes, dimpling or puckering in breast appearance, unusual breast or nipple pain, or redness/swelling of the breasts.

When to Screen for Breast Cancer

The medical community has a broad consensus that women have annual mammograms between the ages of 45 and 54. However, an independent panel of experts called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is saying that women should start getting mammograms every other year at the age of 40, suggesting that this lowered the age for breast cancer screening could save 19% more lives.

WATCH: SurvivorNet expert, oncologist Dr. Ann Partridge discusses the challenges of diagnosing and treating treating aggressive breast cancers in young women.

For women aged 55 and older, the American Cancer Society recommends getting a mammogram every other year. However, women in this age group who want added reassurance can still get annual mammograms.

Women with a strong family history of breast cancer, have dense breasts, have a genetic mutation known to increase the risk of breast cancer, such as a BRCA gene mutation, or a medical history, including chest radiation therapy before age 30, are considered at higher risk for breast cancer.

WATCH: Understanding the BRCA gene mutation.

Experiencing menstruation at an early age (before 12) or having dense breasts can also put you into a high-risk category. If you are at a higher risk for developing breast cancer, you should begin screening earlier.

RELATED: Is Genetic Testing Right for You?

Breast density is determined through mammograms. However, women with dense breasts are at a higher risk for developing breast cancer because dense breast tissue can mask potential cancer during screening. 3D mammograms, breast ultrasound, breast MRI, and molecular breast imaging are options for women with dense breasts for a more precise screening. It is important to ask your doctor about your breast density and cancer risk.

Family History & Breast Cancer Risk

Although breast cancer can happen to anyone, certain factors can increase a person’s risk of getting the disease. The known risk factors for breast cancer include:

• Older age
• Having a gene mutation such as the BRCA1 or BRCA2
• Added exposure to estrogen
• Having children after the age of 30
• Exposure to radiation early in life
• Family history of the disease

Different types of genetic testing can help people with a family history of cancer better ascertain their cancer risks. Your doctor will discuss your family history of cancer with you in the context of your type of tumor and your age at diagnosis. Hereditary genetic testing is usually done with a blood or saliva test.

WATCH: Understanding genetic testing for breast cancer.

About ten percent of breast cancers are hereditary, says Dr. Ophira Ginsburg, Director of the High-Risk Cancer Program at NYU Langone’s Perlmutter Cancer Center.

“We encourage only those with a family history to get [genetic testing],” Dr. Ginsburg tells SurvivorNet. “I would say that if you have anyone in your family diagnosed with a rare cancer. Or if you have a strong family history of one or two kinds of cancer, particularly breast and ovarian, but also colon, rectal, uterine, and ovarian cancer, that goes together in another cancer syndrome called the Lynch Syndrome.”

The second test involves the genetic sequencing of your tumor if you’ve been diagnosed with cancer by this point. These genetic changes can be inherited, but most arise during a person’s lifetime. This process usually involves examining a biopsy or surgical specimen of your tumor. This testing can lead to decisions on drugs that might work against your cancer.

Coping with an Emotional Breast Cancer Diagnosis

When you are diagnosed with cancer, feelings of fear and anxiety are completely normal. SurvivorNet experts recommend four tips for women diagnosed with breast cancer to better cope with their emotions during this difficult stage of the journey.

• Let your family and close friends know and let them help. After a diagnosis, you’re often faced with a ton of emotions and need help. It would be best if you encouraged people close to you to jump in with whatever practical help they can offer.
• Keep a journal. Many cancer warriors have shared with SurvivorNet that keeping a journal is an effective tool for acknowledging your feelings and emotions.
• Join a cancer support group. There is a good chance someone else is facing what you are facing or has been through this emotional leg of the journey before. Support groups in nearly every community offer opportunities to connect with others going through a similar journey. You’ll learn constructive insight from others who can tell you about what to expect and how to stay strong on tough days.
• Seek professional help from a therapist. Ask your doctor to refer you to a therapist so you can discuss your fears and concerns in a safe space. Vocalizing your thoughts and feelings rather than bottling them inside can be therapeutic.

WATCH: Maintaining a Positive Headspace

What To Ask Your Doctor

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, you may have questions about how to keep your strength through treatment. Here are a few questions to help you begin the conversation with your doctor:

• What treatment will I be receiving?
• What side effects are associated with this treatment?
• Are there steps I can take in my daily life to help minimize these side effects?
• What physical activity routine do you recommend for me during treatment?
• Do you have recommendations for someone who doesn’t particularly enjoy exercise?
• Can you recommend a dietician who can help me with healthy eating tips and maintaining a healthy weight?
• I’ve been having trouble sleeping, do you have any treatment recommendations?

Contributing: SurvivorNet Staff

Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.

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