Symptoms and Signs

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:

1. Maintain a healthy weight
2. Stay physically active
3. Eat fruits and vegetables