Early Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Are you aware of the early symptoms of breast cancer. Would you recognize breast cancer signs? So many women are “aware” of breast cancer, but don’t really know very much about the actual disease. It is my hope that since you have found this website, you will become more than just “aware” of breast cancer, but actively involved in your own breast health.

Unfortunately, the signs of breast cancer may be… NOTHING. And actually detecting the early symptoms of breast cancer is another challenge. Breast cancer isn’t like a cold sore where you can feel it coming on. You may not be able to feel or detect a breast lump. You many not have any swelling or discomfort. You may just feel the same as any normal women feels. That is why a complete early detection plan is so critical. A breast mammogram is a critical part of early detection. So if you are over 40 years of age, it would be a good idea to see your doctor about scheduling one.

If you aren’t getting regular mammograms, knowing your own boobs is always a good idea. The list below may be some early symptoms of breast cancer to be on the look out for:

Any changes in your breast or nipples

A detectable lump that does not go away after a full monthly cycle

A lump that you can feel with hard irregular edges

Swelling, itching or pain in your breasts.

There are a couple of conditions that have very specific signs and symptoms. Become familiar with these breast cancer conditions.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)
Being aware of the signs and symptoms of IBC could help you recognize these conditions more rapidly and get vital treatment started sooner. Below is a short list of some of the signs and symptoms of IBC:

• Your breast may feel warm to the touch

• The skin of your breast may look like an orange with dimples

• Your nipple may be turned inward

• You may feel a thickening of the skin

• One of your breasts may be swollen and feel heavy or hurt

• Your breast may itch a lot

• You may have discharge from your nipple

Paget’s Disease of the Breast
It is important to recognize the symptoms of Paget's disease of the breast so you can potentially spot it during your monthly breast exams. Some of the symptoms of Paget's disease of the breast are:

• Redness

• Typically affects only one breast

• Looks like a rash

• Skin of the nipple (or areola) appears flaky or has scales

• Itchiness

• Tingling

• Pain

• Discharge from the nipple

• The nipple looks flat or misshaped

• Underlying lump may be detected

This is not a complete list, but captures some of the major breast cancer signs and symptoms of these conditions.

In general, if you detect a change in your breasts – SEE YOUR DOCTOR.

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