Breast Cancer: Symptoms
Breast cancer in its earliest stages usually has no observable symptoms, but as tumors develop, the following signs might become noticeable:
- A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area (where the lymph nodes are located)
- Change in the size or shape of the breast, or a noticeable flattening of the breast, texture changes
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin of the breast
- An inwardly turned or retracted nipple
- Discharge of fluid, bloody or otherwise from the nipple
- Scaly, red, swollen skin on the breast, nipple, or areola, pitted skin on the nipple
- Pain in the nipple
- Persistent tenderness
Keep in mind that when performing your monthly BSE (breast self-exam) you may encounter symptoms that indicate there's a problem, though do not necessarily indicate the presence of breast cancer. Many of the above symptoms are indicative of benign tumors, cysts, or other breast issues, however if you notice any symptoms at all you should have your doctor schedule tests to find out what's wrong.