Breast cancer – Symptoms, causes, Pros and Cons

Breast cancer – Symptoms, causes, Pros and Cons

Breast cancer – Symptoms, causes, Pros and Cons

Breast cancer can develop in different ways and may not cause any noticeable symptoms at all. However, there are some changes in your breasts that you should be aware of. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor to get checked out.

Here are some of the most common symptoms of breast cancer:

• A new lump in your breast or armpit that doesn’t go away
• A change in the size or shape of your breast
• Changes to the skin of your breast, such as dimpling, puckering, or redness
• Nipple discharge, including blood and other than breast milk
• A change in the look or feel of your nipple, such as pulling in or becoming inverted

It’s important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, benign (not cancerous) lumps are more common than cancerous ones. But it’s always best to see your doctor to get a diagnosis. Early detection and treatment of breast cancer is essential for improving the chances of a successful outcome.

Also Read: 20 Fun Facts About Cancer Symptoms

Breast cancer symptoms: A new lump in your breast or armpit that doesn’t go away

A new lump in your breast or armpit that doesn’t go away is one of the most common symptoms of breast cancer.

It’s important to note that most breast lumps are not cancerous. However, it’s always best to see your doctor to get a diagnosis. Early detection and treatment of breast cancer is essential for improving the chances of a successful outcome.

Breast cancer symptoms: A change in the size or shape of your breast

A change in the size or shape of your breast is another important symptom to be aware of for breast cancer. This can manifest in a few different ways:

• One breast becoming larger than the other: This can be a noticeable difference or a more subtle change.
• A specific area of the breast becoming swollen or enlarged: This may or may not be accompanied by a noticeable lump.
• A change in the curvature or overall shape of the breast: The breast may appear more dimpled or puckered in some areas.

It’s important to remember that breasts naturally come in all shapes and sizes, and some women may have one breast slightly larger than the other. However, any noticeable change from your normal breast appearance is worth getting checked by a doctor.

Also Read: What causes poor brain health? What you need to know

Breast cancer symptoms: Changes to the skin of your breast, such as dimpling, puckering, or redness

Changes to the skin of your breasts can be a sign of breast cancer, and there are three main things to look out for:

• Dimpling: This can make the breast look like an orange peel, with a pitted or puckered texture.
• Puckering: This refers to an inward pulling of the skin, which can create a wrinkled appearance.
• Redness: The skin may become inflamed and appear red, especially with inflammatory breast cancer, a more rare and aggressive form.

It’s important to note that these skin changes can also be caused by other conditions, but it’s always best to see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Early detection and treatment of breast cancer is essential for a successful outcome.

Breast cancer symptoms: Nipple discharge, other than breast milk, including blood

Nipple discharge, other than breast milk, can be a symptom of breast cancer, and it’s important to be aware of the specifics:

• Color: Bloody nipple discharge is a cause for concern, but other colors like clear, yellow, or green can also be linked to cancer, especially if it’s only coming from one breast.
• Consistency: Bloodstained discharge or thick, sticky discharge can be more concerning than clear, watery discharge.
• Spontaneity: If the discharge happens on its own without you squeezing or manipulating your nipple, it warrants a doctor’s visit.

While most nipple discharge is not due to cancer, it’s important to see a doctor to determine the cause. Here’s why:

• Early detection: If it is cancer, early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
• Ruling out other causes: There can be other reasons for nipple discharge, such as hormonal changes, infections, or benign (non-cancerous) tumors. A doctor can help identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Remember, noticing any nipple discharge other than breast milk is a good reason to see your doctor for a checkup.

Also Read: How can I improve my brain health? What you need to know

Breast cancer symptoms: A change in the look or feel of your nipple, such as pulling in or becoming inverted

A change in the look or feel of your nipple, such as pulling in or becoming inverted, is another important symptom to be aware of for breast cancer. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• Nipple inversion: This is when the nipple, which normally sticks out slightly, begins to pull inward. It can affect one or both nipples, and may occur suddenly or develop gradually.

Important points to consider:

• Inverted nipples can be present from birth (congenital inversion) and are not necessarily a cause for concern.
• However, if you notice a new inversion in a nipple that was previously normal, it’s important to see a doctor to get it checked out.

Also Read: The Neuriva Brain Health Challenge: 10 Things I Didn’t Know Before

Additional nipple changes to look for:

• Dimpling or puckering: Similar to the skin changes on the breast, the nipple itself may develop a dimpled or puckered appearance.
• Scaly or crusted skin: The skin around the nipple may become dry, flaky, or crusted.
• Change in nipple shape: The nipple may become flatter or wider than usual.

Remember: Early detection is key! If you notice any changes in your nipples, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your doctor. They can perform a physical exam and may recommend further tests, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, to determine the cause.

Breast cancer symptoms: Pain and discomfort in the breast

Breast cancer pain is a complex issue. While it’s not the most common symptom, it shouldn’t be ignored. Here’s what you need to know:

• Pain is less frequent: Pain in the breast is actually not as common with breast cancer compared to other symptoms like lumps or changes in breast appearance https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer.html.
• Types of pain: Breast cancer pain can vary and may be described as:
  • Aching
  • Burning
  • Sharpness
  • Tenderness
• Not a reliable indicator: Many women experience breast pain throughout their menstrual cycle or due to other benign breast conditions. Pain alone shouldn’t be cause for alarm, but any new or persistent pain warrants a doctor’s visit.

Here are some situations where breast pain might be more concerning:

• Pain along with other symptoms: If you have breast pain along with a lump, nipple discharge, or changes in skin texture, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out breast cancer.
• Persistent pain: If you have breast pain that is persistent and doesn’t improve with your menstrual cycle or other lifestyle changes, it’s best to get it checked out by a doctor.
• Pain in one specific spot: Pain that is concentrated in a specific area of the breast, rather than generalized soreness, can be a cause for concern.

Remember: Early detection is crucial for successful breast cancer treatment. If you have any concerns about breast pain, especially when accompanied by other symptoms or if it’s persistent, don’t hesitate to see your doctor. They can perform a physical exam and recommend any necessary tests for diagnosis.

Also Read: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet on best vitamins for brain health