Must know early signs and symptoms of breast cancer

Posted By Suborna Fermi Posted on Feb 18, 2022

Early breast cancer may show mild to no symptoms at all, and the symptoms may vary depending on the individuals. However, you may not notice any symptoms, but breast cancer in the later stage is lethal. Therefore, detecting breast cancer at an early stage is very important.

Lumps in the breast or in the armpit is one of the most common symptoms of breast cancer. However, there are still a number of signs and symptoms of breast cancer, which most people are not aware of. Some breast cancer symptoms are discussed below.

Symptoms of breast cancer

As early symptoms, you may notice some minor changes in your breast area. Some symptoms are:

• Your nipple shape may change
• Experiencing breast pain which does not go away after your next menstrual period
• A recent lump that does not go away after your next menstrual period
• Clear, red, brown or yellow nipple discharge from one breast
• Redness, swelling, itchiness, or rash in the breast area
• Lumps or swelling in the armpit or in the collarbone

There are also some later signs and symptoms of breast cancer such as:

• Retraction of the nipple
• Expansion of one breast
• Skin dimpling in the breast area
• Orange peel skin texture in the breast area
• A growing existing lump
• Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit
• Weight loss
• Poor appetite

If you're having any of these symptoms, it does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer. For instance, nipple discharge can also occur due to any breast infection. Do consult with a doctor, if you are having these symptoms frequently.

Generally, new and painless lumps are considered as one of the most common and major symptoms of breast cancer. However, not all lumps are cancerous. Most cases of breast biopsies came back with a benign breast disease.

Most people make mistakes by thinking that breast pain is only associated with breast cancer. Breast pain or tenderness can also happen due to many several health issues. Breast cysts, hormonal changes due to menstrual, taking birth control pills, fertility treatment, and even excessive stress can also contribute to breast pain and tenderness.

Breast cancer is very common in women now-a-days. Hence, it is important to be aware of all the possible signs and symptoms of breast cancer. If you notice recurrences of the symptoms discussed earlier, then you should immediately consult with a doctor.