What Should You Know About Breast Cancer Symptoms?

Detecting breast cancer early can often make treatment easier. In addition to regular mammograms, being aware of the shape and feel of your breasts is important for early detection. Some breast cancer symptoms are best seen with a mammogram. Other symptoms may be more pronounced, such as changes in how the breast looks or feels.

It is important to know that not all breast changes are due to cancer. Benign (non-cancerous) breast conditions are more common than breast cancer. However, it is important to let your healthcare provider know so that breast changes can be checked.

Breast nodules

Breast nodules are the most common symptoms of breast cancer. These are usually firm and painless, but some are painful and not all tumors are cancerous. However, it is important that your doctor immediately check for new masses and lumps. If it turns into cancer, the sooner it's detected, the better.

Swelling in or around the chest, collarbone, armpits

Swelling in the chest may lead to swelling in or around the collarbone, armpits can cause and be a sign of cancer. Some types of breast cancer can cause breast swelling. Swelling and lumps around the collarbone and armpits may be caused by breast cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes in these areas. Swelling may occur without feeling a lump in the nipple. In case of swelling, inform your doctor as soon as possible.

Dimpling in the chest

If your breasts begin to thicken and look like an orange peel, have them checked immediately. It can be caused by mastitis. This infection is more common in women who are breastfeeding, but can occur in other women as well. Your doctor may choose to give you antibiotic treatment first.

However, if symptoms do not improve after about a week, rechecking is necessary. These symptoms may be due to inflammatory breast cancer. In this type of breast cancer, the symptoms may look like an infection, but they are less common and should be treated as soon as possible.

Nipple stenosis

Breast cancer can cause inverted nipples. If you notice any changes in your nipples, consult your doctor immediately. This could be a sign of breast cancer. In addition, nipple narrowing can occur in aging and non-cancerous breast problems.

Red, dry, scaly, or thickened breasts or nipples

Red, dry, scaly, or thickened breasts or nipples can be a sign of infection or irritation. But breast cancer can also cause it. Ask your doctor to check for these changes as soon as possible.

Discharge from the nipple

Everything is worrisome, except for the milk coming out of the nipple. It is usually caused by an injury, infection, or a benign (non-cancerous) tumor. However, you could get breast cancer, especially if your discharge is bloody, so get it checked out by your doctor.

Ache

Most breast cancers do not cause breast or nipple pain, but some do. Women often experience chest pain and discomfort during their menstrual cycle. Also, some noncancerous breast conditions, such as mastitis, can cause more immediate pain. However, if you have severe or persistent breast pain, your doctor should check it out. You may have cancer or a mild illness that requires treatment.

Breast health includes not only regular mammograms but also monitoring for changes in the appearance and feel of the breast. Get to know your breasts and report any changes to your doctor.