Breast Cancer Symptoms

What are the most common breast cancer symptoms?

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer amongst women in the western world, but breast cancer symptoms are not always obvious, meaning that it often takes time to diagnose.

It is important that women check regularly for breast cancer symptoms, because they are unlikely to actually feel ill when this condition is in its early stages, and breast cancer treatment is most effective.

Here are the common breast cancer symptoms that all women should look out for:

Breast Cancer Symptoms 1: a lump in the breast

The main symptom of breast cancer is a thickened area of tissue or a lump in the breast. These lumps are most commonly found by the women affected, during routine breast examinations. A lump or swelling could also appear in your armpit so take care to check that area as well.

If you do find a lump in your breast it is important to remember that you do not necessarily have breast cancer. Symptoms such as lumps can simply indicate a harmless cyst or benign growth. Your breasts may also feel generally lumpy just before your period is due. Around ninety percent of breast lumps are non-cancerous, but you still get them checked out by your doctor to be on the safe side.

Breast Cancer Symptoms 2: discharge from the nipple

One of the most obvious breast cancer symptoms is a discharge from either, or both of your nipples. This may or may not be streaked with blood but should always be reported to your doctor immediately.

Breast Cancer Symptoms 3: changes to the breast

Women should be aware of any changes in the feel and appearance of their breasts so they can talk to a doctor about any changes. Breast cancer symptoms can include a change in the size or shape of either, or both of your breasts, or a dimpling effect on the skin of the breast.

Breast Cancer Symptoms 4: changes to the nipple

When you check your breasts for changes, also have a look at the nipple, as many breast cancer symptoms affect this area. A rash around the nipple is one of the more unusual breast cancer symptoms, and the nipple can also become inverted or sunken into the breast.

Breast Cancer Symptoms 5: breast pain

If you feel any unexplained pain in your breast or armpit that is not directly related to your menstrual cycle, you should get it checked out with your doctor. Some people also report pain in their arm on the side affected by breast cancer, but medical research has not yet established whether arm pain should be added to the list of breast cancer symptoms.

Checking for breast cancer symptoms

Some women feel uncomfortable checking their breasts for breast cancer symptoms, and it does not always feel like a very natural thing to do. However, the earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the greater the chances of treating it successfully, so regular checks are essential.

Being a little uncomfortable is a small price to pay for good health. If you check frequently you will quickly get used to it, and you will become more familiar with your breasts so you can notice any changes. Doctors recommend women start to check their breast regularly from the age of twenty.

Try to check for breast cancer symptoms every month, just after your period. This is a good time as your breast may feel lumpy before your period. Take a minute to examine your breasts when you get out of the shower or when you are getting dressed in the morning. You should examine your breasts both visually and physically. For more information on the different methods of checking your breasts, please see our page on checking for signs of breast cancer.

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Breast Cancer