What to Look For if You Suspect Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, though it can also occur in men. The good news is that when it's caught early, it's often very treatable. That's why it’s important to know the early signs of breast cancer and to pay attention to any changes in your body.
This article will walk you through the most common warning signs of breast cancer, how to spot them and when to talk to your doctor.
1. A Lump in the Breast or Underarm
One of the most well-known signs of breast cancer is a lump in the breast or in the armpit. These lumps are often painless, but not always. They can feel hard or have uneven edges, though some can be soft or round. While most breast lumps are not cancer, any new lump should be checked by a healthcare provider.
Regular self-exams and knowing how your breasts normally feel can help you detect any changes early. If you feel something new or different, don’t wait, get it checked out.
2. Swelling in the Breast
Swelling of all or part of the breast can be another sign of breast cancer. This may not include a lump that you can feel. The skin may feel tight, or the breast may look larger than usual. Sometimes this can be a sign of a rare but aggressive form called inflammatory breast cancer, which requires urgent medical attention.
3. Changes in the Skin of the Breast
If the skin on your breast starts to look different, that could be a warning sign. Look out for:
- Dimpling (when the skin looks like the surface of an orange, also known as “peau d’orange”).
- Redness or a rash that doesn’t go away.
- Thickening or puckering of the skin.
These skin changes might not be painful, but they should not be ignored. They may indicate changes happening beneath the surface.
4. Pain in the Breast or Nipple
While breast pain is common and usually not related to cancer—especially around the menstrual cycle—ongoing or unexplained pain in the breast or nipple should be looked at. If you have pain that doesn’t go away or feels different from your usual discomfort, talk to your doctor.
5. Nipple Changes
Changes to the nipple can also be a red flag. These include:
- The nipple turning inward (inversion).
- Changes in shape or direction.
- Scaly, dry or crusty skin around the nipple.
- Discharge from the nipple, especially if it's clear, bloody or happens without squeezing.
Any new or unexplained nipple changes should be evaluated, especially if they’re only happening in one breast.
6. A Feeling of Heaviness or Fullness
Some people describe feeling a sense of fullness, tenderness or heaviness in one breast that seems different from usual. While this isn’t always a sign of breast cancer, it can be a sign that something has changed in the tissue and is worth a closer look.
7. Lumps or Swelling Near the Collarbone or Armpit
Sometimes, breast cancer can spread to lymph nodes in the armpit or near the collarbone before a lump is noticeable in the breast. If you notice swelling or a lump in these areas, even if your breast looks and feels normal, it’s important to get it checked.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice any of the above symptoms, it’s important not to panic, but don’t ignore them either. Many breast changes are caused by non-cancerous conditions like cysts or hormonal shifts. However, only a doctor can tell you for sure.
You should schedule an appointment if:
- A lump appears or changes.
- There’s new or unusual breast pain.
- Your nipple or skin changes unexpectedly.
- Swelling or thickening occurs in part of your breast.
Early detection is key. The sooner breast cancer is found, the more treatment options are available, and the better the outcome.
The Importance of Regular Screenings
In addition to watching for changes, regular screenings like mammograms are essential, especially for people over 40 or those with a family history of breast cancer. These tests can detect cancer before symptoms appear.
Talk to your doctor about when to begin screenings and how often you should have them based on your personal risk factors.