Symptoms and Signs of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a condition in which the breast cells grow abnormally and form tumours. The breast is made up of ducts, lobules and connective tissues, and cancer can occur in any of these parts. In some severe cases, the cancer can spread to other parts of the body outside the breast and create further complications. Breast cancer can have different symptoms in different people, depending on the part of the breast affected with cancer. Read on to learn about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer in detail.

Symptoms

The indications of breast cancer can vary from person to person. Some common breast cancer symptoms are —

• Breast pain

Recurrent pain in the breast is one of the most common symptoms of breast cancer.

• A new lump in the breast or armpit

If a noticeable lump in the breast or armpit does not go away, see a doctor immediately for investigation.

• Swelling near the breast

Some people may also notice swelling in the collarbone or armpit. In most cases, this swelling starts before people notice a lump.

• Changes in the breast

Any change in your breast’s size, texture or contour can be a sign of breast cancer.

• Changes in the nipple

Dimpling of the nipple or its inward pulling are important symptoms of breast cancer. Some may also experience nipple sores, burning and itching.

• Pain and discomfort

Persistent breast pain and tenderness are symptoms of breast cancer. These happen because of the lump in the breast.

• Changes and irritation in the breast skin

Breast cancer can also change the skin of the affected breast and cause itching and irritation.

• Unusual discharge from the nipple

This discharge can be transparent or whitish; one may also see blood in certain instances.

Some people with breast cancer may not experience any signs or symptoms in the beginning stages. Therefore, it is important to go for regular mammograms to detect this condition early.

Early Warning Signs

The following are the common early warning signs of breast cancer:

• A lump can be seen in the breast, which is usually painless. These lumps are usually discovered during routine breast exams or mammograms.

• A lump can be seen in the armpit.

• You may see visible differences in the breast, such as redness or swelling.

• Change in breast size can be seen.

• One can see changes in one or both nipples, such as pulling in of the nipple, unusual discharge and sores.

• One can experience pain in the breast.

• Thickening of the nipple/breast skin may be seen.