Breast Cancer Signs & Symptoms:

Mostly, breast cancer is discovered before symptoms are present, either by finding an abnormality on mammography or feeling a breast lump. You may also notice a lump under your arm or above your collarbone that does not go away. Other possible symptoms are Breast Discharge, Nipple Inversion, or Changes in the Skin Overlying the Breast.

*Early age breast cancer has no symptoms. It is not painful.

Remember!

Most breast lumps are not cancerous. All breast lumps, however, need to be evaluated by a doctor.

Breast discharge is a common problem and is rarely a symptom of cancer.

Discharge is most concerning if it is from only 1 breast or if it is bloody. In any case, all breast discharge should be evaluated.

Nipple inversion is a common variant of normal nipples, but nipple inversion that is a new development can be of concern.

Changes in the skin of the breast include redness, changes in texture, and puckering. These changes are usually caused by skin diseases but occasionally can be associated with breast cancer.

When To See Your Doctor?

Breast Cancer develops over months or years. Once it is identified, a certain sense of emergency is felt about the treatment, because Breast Cancer is much more difficult to treat as it spreads from the Breast.

You should see your doctor, if you experience any of the following:

 a) Finding a breast lump.

 b) Finding a lump in your armpit or above your collar bone that does not go away in a week or so

 c) Developing breast discharge.

 d) Noticing new nipple inversion or skin changes over the breast.

 e) Redness or swelling in the breast may suggest an infection of the breast.

 f) You should see your health care provider within the next 24 hours because infection should be treated promptly.

Diagnosis of breast cancer usually comprises several steps, including Examination of the Breast, Mammography, possibly Ultrasonography, and finally Biopsy. Biopsy is the only definitive way to diagnose breast cancer.

 

                                          Click here  Stages
                                          Click here  Self-Exam Step 1 & 2 
                                          Back to       Breast Cancer?