Early Signs of Breast Cancer

Early signs of breast cancer can include a new lump or mass in the breast or underarm, swelling of all or part of a breast, skin irritation or dimpling, breast or nipple pain, nipple retraction (turning inward), redness or scaliness of the breast skin or nipple, or a nipple discharge other than breast milk. It's important to note that these signs can also be related to benign conditions.

A self-exam for breast cancer is performed by using the pads of your fingers to check your entire breast and armpit area for any lumps or thickening. Check both breasts for any changes in size, shape, or color, as well as any signs of fluid coming out of one or both nipples. Self-exams should be performed regularly - about once a month - to familiarize yourself with your breasts so you can notice any changes.

Yes, breast cancer can present with non-lump symptoms. These can include changes in the size or shape of the breast, skin changes (such as dimpling, puckering, redness, or scaling), nipple changes (like inversion or discharge), or unexplained breast pain. It's crucial to get any persistent breast changes checked by a healthcare professional.

A breast cancer lump is often hard and immovable with irregular edges. However, they can also be soft, round, and tender. Lumps can be painless or may cause a noticeable change in breast size or shape. Any new lump or change in breast tissue should be checked by a healthcare professional to rule out cancer.

Breast pain alone is more often a symptom of benign breast conditions than breast cancer. However, if it's part of other symptoms or persists and is localized to one specific area of your breast, it's important to get it checked by a healthcare professional. A lump may or may not be present.

Yes, changes in the size or shape of the breast can be a sign of breast cancer. This could include unexplained swelling or shrinkage of the breast (particularly if it's only on one side), or changes in the contour of the breast or nipple.

Yes, certain skin changes on the breast may indicate cancer. These can include dimpling, puckering, redness, or scaliness of the breast skin.

Nipple discharge can be a sign of breast cancer, especially if it's bloody or clear and only from one breast. While nipple discharge can also be due to a benign breast condition, especially if it's milky or green, any new, unusual, or persistent nipple discharge should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare but aggressive form of breast cancer. It presents with symptoms of inflammation like redness, swelling, and warmth in the breast, often without a distinct lump. The skin may also appear pitted, like an orange peel. Any sudden changes or symptoms like these should be immediately reported to a healthcare provider.

If you notice a lump, changes in breast size or shape, nipple discharge, or any other unusual changes in your breasts, it's important to contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible. They can perform tests to determine the cause of these changes and whether they're indicative of breast cancer or a benign condition.

Yes, men can get breast cancer, although it's much less common than in women. The signs are similar and include a lump in the breast, changes to the skin or nipple, nipple discharge, or pain in the breast.

Some early signs of breast cancer that may be overlooked include slight changes in the size or shape of the breast, subtle skin changes, nipple discharge or inversion, or unexplained pain in a specific area of the breast. It's essential to get to know your breasts and what is normal for you so that you can identify any changes.

Yes, breast cancer can occur without obvious signs or symptoms, particularly in the early stages. This is why regular screenings such as mammograms are so important, as they can detect breast cancers early, often before they can be felt.

It's generally recommended to perform a breast self-exam once a month. Regular self-exams help you familiarize yourself with your breasts, making it easier to notice any changes that might occur.

Lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of breast cancer include maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding smoking, and considering breastfeeding if possible. Regular screening is also key for early detection.

Breasts are often naturally slightly different in size or shape. However, if you notice a sudden change in the symmetry of your breasts, it could potentially be a sign of breast cancer and should be checked by a healthcare professional.

Paget's disease of the breast is a rare form of breast cancer that starts in the breast ducts and spreads to the nipple and areola. It can cause symptoms such as redness, scaling, itching, and burning in the nipple. Any persistent changes to the nipple should be checked by a healthcare provider.

Mammograms are effective at detecting breast cancer early, often before it can be felt. They can detect lumps, calcifications, and other changes in the breast that may be signs of cancer. Regular mammograms are a key part of early breast cancer detection.

Yes, having a close relative (such as a mother, sister, or daughter) with breast cancer can double your risk of developing the disease. However, it's important to note that most women who get breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease.

Research suggests that breastfeeding can slightly reduce a woman's risk of developing breast cancer, particularly if breastfeeding lasts for 1.5 to 2 years. However, this has to be balanced with other lifestyle factors and personal choices.