Breast cancer symptoms can vary from person to person, and sometimes there are no noticeable symptoms in the very early stages. However, it's important to be aware of the potential signs and to consult a doctor if you notice any unusual changes.
Here are some of the most common initial symptoms of breast cancer:
* A new lump or mass in the breast or armpit: This is the most common symptom. While most breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous), any new lump or mass should be checked by a doctor. Cancerous lumps may feel hard, be irregularly shaped, and might not be movable. However, they can also be soft, round, or even painful.
*Swelling of all or part of a breast: This can occur even if no distinct lump is felt.
* Changes to the skin of the breast:
* Dimpling or puckering: This can sometimes resemble an orange peel texture.
* Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the breast skin or nipple area. These changes may be harder to see on darker skin tones, where they might appear as a reddish-brown or darker color.
* Itching or irritation that doesn't go away.
* Nipple changes:
* Nipple retraction: The nipple turning inward.
* Nipple discharge: Any discharge from the nipple other than breast milk, especially if it's clear or bloody.
* A rash or sores on the nipple.
* Change in the size or shape of one or both breasts.
* Pain in the breast or armpit that does not go away: While breast pain that comes and goes is usually not a symptom of breast cancer, persistent pain should be evaluated.
* Swollen lymph nodes: A lump or swelling in the armpit or near the collarbone can sometimes be a sign of breast cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes, even before a primary tumor in the breast is large enough to be felt.
Important Considerations:
* Many of these symptoms can also be caused by benign (non-cancerous) breast conditions.
* It's crucial to get any new or unusual breast changes checked by a healthcare professional promptly.
* Regular breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms, are vital for detecting breast cancer early, sometimes even before a lump can be felt.
Being "breast aware" – knowing what your breasts normally look and feel like – can help you identify any changes early.