You might find lumps or changes in your breast’s size or color, depending on the type of breast cancer you have. The appearance of your nipple may also change.
Breast cell genes become mutated, which causes breast cancer. They become uncontrollably divisible and multiply as a result.
There is no known cause for breast cancer, but some people are more at risk than others. This covers those with specific gene mutations as well as a personal or family history of breast cancer.
The most typical malignancy among women is breast cancer. Males can also develop it.
The prognosis is better when breast cancer is detected and treated early. Because of this, specialists advise scheduling routine mammograms as well as routine breast exams. Which breast cancer screening schedule is appropriate for you can be decided by a doctor.
Early detection of breast cancer symptoms may lead to earlier treatment and a better prognosis since cancer cells can metastasis, or migrate to other parts of the body.
Breast lumps or thickening
It is simpler to feel than to see the first signs of breast cancer. You can get accustomed to your breasts’ typical appearance and feel by performing a monthly self-exam.
Although there is no proof that self-examinations might help you find cancer before symptoms show, they might make it simpler for you to spot any abnormalities in your breast tissue, including lumps.
Establish a schedule for checking your breasts at least once a month. A few days after the beginning of your menstrual cycle is an excellent time. Choose a definite date to check your breasts every month if you don’t have periods, such as if menopause has begun.
Nipple discharge
You can have a milky discharge from the nipples if you’re nursing. However, discharge that occurs when you are not breastfeeding may be a sign of breast cancer. Discharge might show as:
- bloody
- clear
- whitish
It may only affect one nipple and originate from a single duct.
Make an appointment with a doctor if you’re not nursing and you’re observing discharge. The cause can be determined after an examination.
Changes in the size and shape of the breast
Your menstrual cycle may cause your breasts to naturally swell. Breast cancer may be indicated by different periods of swelling or dimples.
If you see any of the following signs:
- swelling in one breast but not the other
- swelling in your breasts outside of your menstrual cycle
- one breast suddenly appearing larger than the other
- breast swelling that occurs with other symptoms
Other medical disorders like mastitis can also cause swelling in one or both breasts.
Inverted nipple
Nipple appearance changes can occur over time and are considered common. But if your nipple flips over, you might want to go to a doctor about it.
An inverted nipple is drawn within the breast as opposed to pointing outward.
The presence of an inverted nipple alone does not indicate breast cancer. Some people may already have an inverted-appearing flat nipple, while others may eventually develop one. However, a doctor should perform an examination and rule out cancer.
Peeling, scaling, or flaking skin
Your skin may be impacted by Paget disease, a form of breast cancer that affects the nipples. You may see the following on your breasts or nipples:
- peeling
- scaling
- flaking
This can be a sign of eczema (atopic dermatitis) or another skin issue in addition to breast cancer.
A doctor can propose treatment after conducting tests to identify the underlying cause of these symptoms.
Skin rash on the breasts
The epidermal and lymphatic veins of the breast are affected by the aggressive but less common kind of breast cancer known as inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). A rash could be one of the first symptoms. IBC typically doesn’t result in lumps, unlike other forms of breast cancer.
When it comes to IBC, the rash could be:
- swollen
- warm
- reddish
- itchy
It might resemble groups of insect bites.
As the cancer progresses, these symptoms could change over time.
Pitting in your breast skin
IBC can also manifest visually in addition to a rash. Your breasts’ appearance may also change as a result of this form of cancer.
You might see pitting or dimpling. An underlying irritation may cause the skin on your breast to start to resemble an orange peel.
