Perhaps you have felt a small lump in your breast while taking a shower or feeling uncomfortable, and you have been scared. True, it is a very scary experience. But remember, not every lump or change in your breast is cancer. However, it is very important for us to be aware of the changes in our body. So today, let's talk about these breast cancer symptoms without fear and openly.
Common symptoms of breast cancer
Breast cancer can present with different symptoms from person to person. Some people may not experience any symptoms in the early stages. However, there are some common signs that we should look out for.
The most common symptom is a new lump in the breast or armpit that doesn't go away . But there may be other symptoms besides this. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Symptom | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Skin changes | Redness, a rash, or dimpling of the skin on the breast. Sometimes it can look like the surface of an orange peel . |
| Swelling in the armpit or groin | This means that the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in that area. These are parts of our immune system. |
| Pain or sensitivity | Most of the time, cancerous lumps are not painful, but sometimes they can feel like a prickly feeling. |
| Changes in breast shape | Feeling a change in the size, shape, texture, or temperature of the breast. One breast looking different from the other. |
| Nipple changes | Nipple indentation, inflammation, itching, or soreness. |
| Nipple discharge | This discharge may be clear, bloody, or a different color. |
Remember, not all breast lumps are cancerous. However, it's always best to tell your doctor about any new changes.
Causes of non-cancerous lumps
If you feel a lump in your breast, before you panic, know that most lumps are not cancerous. They can have other causes.
- Cysts: These are usually harmless, small fluid-filled sacs.
- Fibroadenomas: These are noncancerous, firm lumps that often occur in young women. They may shrink over time without treatment.
- Fibrocystic Breasts: Some women have naturally lumpy breasts. These can become larger and more painful before menstruation.
- Breast Infections: Abscesses can develop due to blockage or infection of the milk ducts, especially after breastfeeding.
- Injury: An injury to the breast can cause scar tissue to form and feel like a lump.
Whatever the cause, if you see or feel a new lump, see a doctor right away. He or she can check it out to see exactly what it is.
Do symptoms vary depending on the type of cancer?
Yes. There are several types of breast cancer. The symptoms may vary slightly depending on the type. Let's 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. Sometimes it can be in a stage where it doesn't spread. We call it `Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS).` DCIS often doesn't cause symptoms and is only detected through a test like a `mammogram.` But sometimes there may be symptoms like a lump, nipple discharge, or itching.
But if this cancer spreads outside the ducts and into surrounding tissues (invasive), it begins to show the common symptoms we discussed earlier.
Lobular Carcinoma (breast cancer)
This type begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules). This is the second most common type. The most common symptoms are:
- A lump, feeling of fullness, or swelling in one area of the breast.
- Nipples that are flat or inverted.
Metastatic Breast Cancer (cancer that has spread to other parts of the body)
If left untreated, breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, lungs, brain, and liver. This is called `metastatic` cancer. Symptoms then depend on where the cancer has spread.
- If it spreads to the bones: bone pain.
- If it spreads to the brain: severe headache, vision changes, seizures.
- If it spreads to the lungs: persistent dry cough, difficulty breathing.
- If it spreads to the liver: abdominal swelling, yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), loss of appetite.
Breast cancer in men
Although many people don't know it, men can also get breast cancer. It is very rare (about 1% of all breast cancers). The symptoms are the same as in women.
- A lump or thickening in the breast or armpit.
- Changes in the skin of the breast or nipple (redness, indentation, discharge).
Because this condition is rare, men may not pay much attention to these symptoms. Therefore, it is essential for any man to seek medical advice if he notices any changes like this.
Symptoms of cancer recurrence after treatment
Even after breast cancer is treated and cured, it can sometimes recur over time. It can be in the same breast, in nearby lymph nodes, or in a distant location in the body.
The risk of recurrence is highest within the first 2 years after treatment, so it's important to talk to your doctor and be aware of the symptoms to watch out for.
Main things to pay attention to:
- A new lump in the breast.
- A thickening or lump near the mastectomy scar.
- A lump or swelling in the armpit, groin, or chest.
- Swelling, pain, or numbness in the hand.
- Persistent chest pain.
If you notice any of these symptoms, inform your doctor immediately.
Take-Home Message
- Be aware of the normal state of your breasts. It is a good practice to perform a breast self-exam at least once a month.
- Don't be afraid or embarrassed about any unusual, new changes you notice in your breast, armpit, or nipple, but see a doctor immediately.
- Remember, not every lump or pain in the breast is cancer, but it is your responsibility to make sure.
- If you are over 40 years old, or if someone in your family has had breast cancer, it is essential to have regular screenings (e.g., mammograms) as recommended by your doctor.
- Breast cancer is a highly curable disease if detected early, so awareness and early action are key.
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