This archive report was first published on 22 October 2019.
Early Warning Signs of Breast Cancer ¶
Published on October 22, 2019
Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths among women worldwide. While it's often associated with a lump or mass in the breast tissue, there are various symptoms to watch out for, depending on the type of breast cancer.
For instance, invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) forms in the milk-producing glands and causes a thickening in the breast area, while invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) forms in the milk ducts and causes a breast lump that can be felt.
Common Symptoms of Breast Cancer ¶
- Changes in the skin of the breast, including redness, swelling, and visible changes
- Nipple discharge
- Presence of nodes or lumps inside or on the breast
- Changes in the appearance of the nipples, including one or both
- Changes in the size of the breast or breasts
- General pain on or in different parts of the breast
When cancer cells from inside the milk ducts break out into the surrounding breast tissue, it's known as invasive breast cancer. Symptoms specific to invasive breast cancer include:
- Itchy or irritated breasts
- Increase in shape and breast size over a certain period of time
- Change in the colour of the breast
- Flaking or peeling of the nipple skin
- Feels different when touched, such as warmth, tenderness, and hardness
- A breast thickening or lump
However, it's essential to remember that some other factors or benign conditions might cause these changes. A doctor's evaluation is crucial to determine whether the condition is a cause for concern.
Types of Breast Cancer and Their Symptoms ¶
Ductal carcinoma, for instance, does not cause any symptoms and is rarely detected through a mammogram. It's essential to get yearly checks to determine if you have ductal carcinoma.
Lobular carcinoma, on the other hand, does not have symptoms and cannot be seen through a mammogram. It's usually found through a breast biopsy.
Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and aggressive type of breast cancer that does not cause breast lumps and rarely appears on a mammogram. Its symptoms include:
- The inverted nipple facing inward
- Burning, heaviness, or aching of one breast
- Swollen, red, and itchy breast, tender to touch
- One breast is larger compared to the other one
- Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or above the collarbone
- The breast's surface may take on a pitted or ridged appearance, similar to an orange peel
It's essential to report any sudden changes in the appearance or texture of the breast immediately to your doctor.
