Symptoms and Signs
About Breast Cancer - Overview
Early Detection
Breast cancer generally shows no symptoms in the early stage, timely detection can turn a story of breast cancer into a survivor’s tale.
Breast Pain
Breast pain is any discomfort, tenderness, or pain in the breast or underarm region, and it may occur for a number of reasons. Generally, breast pain is not a sign of breast cancer.
Breast Cyst
The majority of breast lumps are caused by less severe conditions, new, painless lumps are still the most common symptom of breast cancer. A lump that is hard with irregular edges is more likely to be cancerous.
Self Examination
Early on, a woman may notice a change in her breast when she performs a monthly breast exam or minor abnormal pain that doesn’t seem to go away. Early signs of breast cancer include:
- changes in the shape of the nipple
- breast pain that doesn’t go away after menstrual cycle
- a new lump that doesn’t go away after menstrual cycle
- nipple discharge from one breast that is clear, red, brown, or yellow
- unexplained redness, swelling, skin irritation, itchiness, or rash on the breast
- swelling or a lump around the collarbone or under the arm
Later signs of breast cancer include:
- retraction, or inward turning of the nipple
- enlargement of one breast
- dimpling of the breast surface
- an existing lump that gets bigger
- an “orange peel” texture to the skin
- enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit
Clinical Breast Exam
A clinical breast exam is performed by a healthcare professional who is trained to recognize many different types of abnormalities and warning signs. This in-office exam will most likely be completed by your family physician or gynecologist. These tests include;
- Physical Examination
- Mammogram
- Ultrasound
- MRI
- Biopsy
Healthy Habits
Although you cannot prevent cancer, some habits that can help reduce your risk are:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stay physically active
- Eat fruits and vegetables