Can You Recognize the
Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

Did you know that in the early stages of breast cancer -- pain is not a symptom?

Most breast cancers are found through mammography or by finding a lump in a breast. This could also be a lump that's under the arm or even above the collarbone. As you probably know, cancerous lumps seldom disappear. 

An unusual discharge from the breast is another symptom -- as is an inverted nipple or changes to the skin right over the breast.

It's good news to know that most lumps found in the breast are not cancerous. But each and every lump, especially in the breast area, needs to be evaluated by your doctor.

Discharge from the breast is seldom a symptom of breast cancer, but you should be examined by a doctor if you have this symptom. However, if one of your breasts has blood coming out of it, that could be a serious concern. If one are both of your nipples are inverted, this needs to be checked by your doctor as well -- especially if this is a new development.

The skin over your breast area can change and become red, develop texture or pucker. If this happens to you, be sure to have your doctor check it out because these could be symptoms of breast cancer.

Even though it may take a long time for cancer of the breast to develop, once it's been diagnosed treatment needs to begin immediately because cancer can easily spread from the breast area to other parts of the body.

If you discover a lump in your breast or under your arm or above the collarbone, see your doctor. This is especially important if you've had the symptom for longer than a week. If your breasts are discharging fluid, that's another reason to see your doctor right away. If one or both of your nipples suddenly become inverted, see your doctor right away as well. If there are changes to your skin above your breast area, also check with your doctor about this condition.

Some symptoms around the breast area simply can be infections, but you should see your doctor immediately anyway especially if you notice any of these symptoms -- redness or pain in your breasts, swelling of the breasts or in the armpit region.

In the diagnosis of cancer of the breast, here are several steps to discovering whether the diagnosis is cancer or not:
 
1. Examination of the breast by your doctor
 
2. Ultrasonography or mammography
 
3. Biopsy -- this is the only way you will know for sure if a lump is breast cancer are not

To defend yourself against one of women's worst enemies, breast cancer, be on the lookout for the symptoms mentioned in this article. And don't hesitate to see your doctor if you suspect any of these conditions.