Understanding Early Signs of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer starts when harmful cells grow in the breast tissue. It is the second most common cancer in women globally. Men can also develop breast cancer, but it is rare. Early detection is key. Many survivors lead healthy lives after treatment.

Early symptoms can be mild and easy to miss. Pay attention, especially if breast cancer runs in your family. Here are five early signs you should not ignore:

Skin Changes on Your Breast

An early sign of breast cancer is a change in the skin on your breast. It might look dimpled or puckered, like an orange peel. This happens when cancer cells block lymph vessels under the skin, causing swelling and thickening.

The skin may feel tight, rough, or have small dents. These changes can be mistaken for skin conditions like eczema, so they are often overlooked.

Nipple Changes

Nipple changes are another early symptom that many women miss. Look for these changes:

• Sudden nipple inversion (the nipple pulls inward)
• Nipple retraction
• Unusual nipple discharge (clear, bloody, or without squeezing)

These changes usually happen in only one breast. While some nipple changes can be harmless, sudden changes or persistent discharge should not be ignored.

Swelling or Lumps in Underarms

Breast cancer can spread to nearby lymph nodes before a lump is noticeable in the breast itself. Swelling or lumps under the arm or near the collarbone may be one of the first signs of this spread.

These lumps may feel firm, tender, or irregular in shape. Because they are outside the breast, they can be easily overlooked or mistaken for swollen lymph nodes due to infection.

Ongoing Fatigue

Fatigue is common in daily life and is often overlooked. However, persistent, chronic fatigue that does not improve with rest can be an early sign of breast cancer.

This happens because the body uses a lot of energy fighting cancer and dealing with inflammation. If fatigue is accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss or loss of appetite, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.

Persistent Breast or Nipple Pain

Many women experience breast pain related to their menstrual cycle or minor injuries. However, persistent, localized pain in one area of the breast or nipple that does not go away and is not linked to hormonal changes needs to be checked out.

This pain may feel sharp, burning, or throbbing and should not be ignored, especially if it is new or different from usual breast discomfort. Persistent pain can sometimes indicate inflammation or a growing tumor that needs medical attention. However, it needs to be noted that pain is not the primary sign of breast cancer and is usually not related to early-stage cancer.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional if you notice any changes in your body.