When you think of breast cancer, a lump in the breast comes to mind, right? True, that is the main and most common symptom that we all know. Due to the awareness of breast cancer in society, many women (and even men) are aware of the main symptoms such as lumps, indentations in the skin, and inverted nipples. But did you know that sometimes the symptoms of breast cancer may not be felt or even visible to the eye? That is why screening methods like `(mammogram)` are so important. Also, there are some breast cancer symptoms that we don't talk about much in our daily lives, but are very important to know. Let's talk about them today.
Is there any discharge coming from the nipple?
If you're pregnant or have recently had a baby, it's normal to have a discharge from one or both nipples. That's breast milk. But what if you're not pregnant or having a baby? Then you should be a little concerned. Because this could be a sign of very early breast cancer.
But not every time this type of discharge occurs, it is cancer. In many cases, it can be caused by another health condition. For example, a condition called ``galactorrhea``, which occurs when the hormone ``prolactin`` increases in our body, can also cause a milky discharge.
The most important thing is not to panic if you experience an unusual discharge from your nipple like this, but to talk to your doctor about it.
What do you think about blood-like discharge coming from the nipple?
Anyone can be scared when they see a blood stain on their underwear or a drop of blood coming from their nipple. Sometimes that fear is justified, as it could be a sign of breast cancer. However, most of the time, it's caused by something else that's not harmful. There are several non-cancerous causes of blood-like discharge from your nipples.
| Non-cancerous cause | Simply put... |
|---|---|
| Intraductal papilloma | These are small, non-cancerous lumps that form inside the milk ducts of the breast. |
| Duct ectasia | This condition can occur because the milk ducts become dilated, thickened, and fluid accumulates. |
| Scratches caused by clothing | Small abrasions can also occur and bleed if clothing rubs against your nipples, especially during exercise. |
If you know exactly why the bleeding is happening (for example, because of a tight sports bra), that's a different story. Otherwise, tell your doctor about this kind of blood-like discharge at your next appointment.
Do you get pimples in your armpits or around your neck?
Lymph nodes, or lymph nodes, are clusters of cells that protect us from disease by filtering and destroying harmful substances like bacteria and viruses that enter our bodies. Think of the lumps you feel on either side of your neck when you have a cold... That's when those lymph nodes swell.
This is a bit rare, but these lymph nodes can also swell when there is cancer. In the case of breast cancer, the lymph nodes in the armpit area or near the collarbone can swell. Sometimes you can feel this swollen lump before you can even feel a lump in your breast. Therefore, if you feel a lump in the armpit or near the collarbone, do not ignore it and definitely see a doctor and get it checked.
Does the nipple and surrounding skin itch?
Itchy nipples are a common occurrence. Most of the time, it just goes away with an anti-itch cream.
However, Paget's disease is a different condition. This is a very rare form of breast cancer. It starts in the nipple and then spreads to the dark skin around the nipple (the areola). Itching is the main symptom.
| Other symptoms of Paget's disease |
|---|
| - Numbness or redness in the nipple. |
| - Scaly skin or thickening of the skin. |
| - Flattening of the nipple. |
| - Yellow or bloody discharge. |
The symptoms of Paget's disease are very similar to those of other common skin conditions, such as dermatitis or eczema. So it can be easy to mistake it for a normal skin condition at first. If your rash doesn't go away with regular treatments, be sure to see a doctor right away.
Are your breasts swollen and painful?
This symptom can have several causes. An infection is a common cause. But more rarely, a type of cancer called inflammatory breast cancer can also cause it. This rare type of cancer rarely causes a lump. Instead, your breast begins to change rapidly.
- Breasts appear larger.
- Color change (to red or purple).
- Feeling unusually warm.
- The skin appears dimpled, like an orange peel.
- Pain or tenderness when pressed.
In this type of cancer, cancer cells block the lymph ducts in the breast. These ducts normally drain excess fluid. This blockage causes fluid to build up, which causes the symptoms we mentioned.
Breast Awareness
In the past, doctors advised women to do monthly breast self-exams , with the goal of finding suspicious lumps early. However, research has shown that most biopsies taken from lumps found to be cancerous do not contain cancer cells.
Doctors now say that not everyone needs to do those kinds of `self-exams.` Instead, the goal is now ``Breast Awareness.`` Simply put, be aware of your breasts. Be aware of their shape, texture, color, and size. Then, if you notice anything different from your normal condition , that's when you should talk to your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Breast cancer isn't always just a lump. Be on the lookout for signs like unusual nipple discharge, skin changes (itching, redness, dimpling), swelling, and armpit lumps.
- Many of these symptoms may not be caused by cancer, but the most important thing is to seek medical advice immediately if you notice any unusual changes.
- What's more important now than "breast self-examination" is "breast awareness." That is, knowing what is normal in your body and your breasts.
- If you notice or feel anything new or unusual, talk to your doctor about it without delay. Early detection is the best defense.
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