Symptoms of Breast Cancer

There are many different forms of breast cancer. Some spread rapidly and are unpredictable, while others grow slowly and may go undetected for years. While the most common symptom of breast cancer is a lump or nodule within the breast, there are several other symptoms that may also indicate its presence.

Lumps that appear in the breasts prior to menstruation and disappear or reduce in size after the cycle, are not worrisome. These types of lumps are referred to as fibrocystic change and are thought to be caused by hormonal changes within the body. If lumps continue to grow in size and do not disappear after the menstrual cycle, you should consult with a physician.

Localized pain may occur in one or both breasts at various times throughout a woman's life. It is rarely a symptom of breast cancer; but new and persistent discomfort in only one breast may be a sign of breast cancer. If breast pain continues for more than one week, contact your doctor.

Occasionally, women will experience a slight discharge of clear liquid from the nipples of both breasts. This generally occurs due to a hormone imbalance and will dissipate within 24 to 48 hours. However, if nipple discharge occurs in only one breast and has any signs of blood, it may be cause for concern.

Skin rashes can occur on the breasts due to chemical irritants such as laundry detergent or underarm deodorant. However, if a skin rash appears on the breast that resembles eczema, or if dry scales appear around the nipples, this could be a sign of Paget's disease.

Symptoms of Paget's disease include itching, redness, and soreness of the nipple. Paget's disease always signals the presence of primary ductal carcinoma elsewhere in the breast tissue. Primal ductal carcinoma is the most common type of breast cancer.

Swelling of the breasts can occur prior to the menstrual cycle or during pregnancy. If swelling is accompanied by redness or warmth, it may be a sign of Inflammatory Breast Cancer. IBC is a rare, but aggressive form of breast cancer that can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Other symptoms of Inflammatory Breast Cancer may include a pitting of the skin surrounding the breast. This pitted appearance resembles the texture of an orange and is called peau d' orange. Pitting of the breast is caused by a buildup of fluid, which causes edema (swelling) in the breast.

The most common breast cancer symptoms include:

v A lump or thickening of the breast
v A change in the size or shape of a breast
v A change in the size or shape of a nipple
v A bloody discharge from a nipple
v A rash on the skin around the nipple or on the breast
v Pitting or dimpling of the skin
v Swelling or lumps in the armpit

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult with your physician. Chances are good that these signs are not breast cancer. However, if breast cancer is diagnosed, your chances for recovery improve significantly through early detection.