Breast Cancer Symptoms: What You Need to Know

Today we are talking about a topic that is common among women in our country, and that scares many. That is breast cancer . But it is not good to be afraid to talk about this. Because, if we are properly informed about this disease, if the symptoms are identified early, it can be cured completely. So, if you notice a change in your body, especially in your breasts, do not ignore it. Let's see what are these symptoms that you should pay attention to.

What are the common symptoms of breast cancer?

The symptoms of breast cancer can vary from person to person. Some people may not experience any symptoms in the early stages. However, there are some common signs that you should look out for.

Below are some common symptoms that you should be especially aware of.

But, are all breast lumps cancerous?

Here's something very important. Don't panic if you find a lump in your breast. Not all lumps in the breast are cancer. Most lumps are caused by other health conditions.

• Cysts: These are harmless, fluid-filled sacs.
• Fibroadenomas: These are non-cancerous, solid lumps, especially common in young women .
• Breast infections: Can occur, especially during breastfeeding.
• Minor injuries: An injury to the breast may later cause scar tissue to feel like a lump.

Different types of cancer and their special characteristics

There are different types of breast cancer. Each type may have its own characteristics. Let's take a brief look at some of the main types.

Ductal Carcinoma

This is the most common type of breast cancer. It starts in the milk-carrying ducts of the breast. In the early stages, the cancer may be confined to the ducts. This is called ``Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)``. This condition often does not cause symptoms. It is usually detected through a ``mammogram`` test. However, sometimes a lump or discharge may appear from the nipple.

When cancer spreads outside the ducts and into surrounding tissue, we call it ``Invasive breast cancer ''. Then the common symptoms mentioned earlier may appear.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)

This is a rare and fast-spreading type. Its symptoms can resemble a breast infection, so you need to be especially aware of this.

• Breast redness, swelling, and a feeling of warmth.
• Thickening of the skin , resembling an orange peel.
• Indentation of the nipple.
• Pain and inflammation.

If you have symptoms like these, don't assume it's just a common infection and see a doctor immediately.

Paget's Disease of the Breast

This is also a rare type. Here, the cancer affects the nipple and the skin around it (areola). The symptoms can look like eczema.

• The skin on the nipple becomes scaly, red, and peeling .
• Yellow or bloody discharge from the nipple.
• Inflammation and itching.

When the cancer spreads to other parts of the body (Metastatic Breast Cancer)

If breast cancer is not treated properly, cancer cells can spread to other organs in the body through the blood or lymphatic system. We call this condition `(Metastatic Breast Cancer)`. In this case, the symptoms appear depending on the organ to which the cancer has spread.

• If it spreads to the bones: sudden, persistent bone pain, bones breaking easily.
• If it spreads to the lungs: persistent dry cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain.
• If it spreads to the liver: abdominal swelling, yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), loss of appetite, abdominal pain.
• If it spreads to the brain: persistent headaches, vision problems, seizures, loss of balance.

Do men get breast cancer too?

Yes. This is something that many people don't know. Breast cancer is not a disease that only affects women. Although very rare, men can also get breast cancer. The symptoms are the same as those in women.

• A painless lump in the breast area or armpit.
• Nipple indentation or discharge.
• Skin changes in the breast area.

Because this is so rare, men may not pay much attention to these symptoms. Therefore, it is very important to seek medical advice if you notice any changes like this, even if you are a man.

Symptoms of cancer coming back after treatment (Recurrence)

Breast cancer can recur even after treatment, sometimes years later. So it's important to take care of your body, even after treatment.

• A new lump appears in the treated breast or near the surgical scar.
• A swelling or lump in the armpit or groin.
• Persistent chest pain.
• The emergence of the aforementioned `Metastatic` symptoms (such as bone pain, difficulty breathing).

If you notice any of these symptoms, inform your doctor immediately.

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