If you have been carefully monitoring your breasts and still notice something out of the ordinary, it may be time to get checked by a doctor. Here are ten signs of breast cancer that every woman should know about:
A Lump
You might notice a lump in your breast. A lump can feel like a pea, an almond or a marble.
Lumps can be either painless or painful (although even if it doesn’t hurt, you should still get checked out). Lumps can also be soft or hard and smooth or rough in texture. They may be round, oval or irregularly shaped
Changes In The Breast Size Or Shape
Changes in the breast size or shape are one of the most common signs of cancer. However, it’s important to note that these changes can also be caused by other factors like pregnancy and weight loss. If you notice any sudden changes in either your breasts or nipples, see your doctor immediately for an examination.
Dimpling/Sagging Of The Skin Of The Breast
If you’re noticing a dimpling or sagging of the skin on your breasts, this could be a sign of aging. But it can also be a telltale sign of breast cancer. According to Dr Joy Trueblood, MD, FACS: “As we age our breasts change and become less firm.”
This is especially true for women who have gone through menopause; as estrogen levels drop off, so does collagen production–which gives breasts their shape and support. However, if you notice this change happening suddenly (as opposed to gradually over time) or in one area only (instead of throughout), then it might be time for further investigation at an annual checkup with your doctor or gynecologist.
Milky Discharge From Nipples
If you have a milky discharge from your nipples that lasts more than a few days, doesn’t go away when you press on it and does not smell like breast milk, this may be a sign of cancer. It’s important to note that this symptom can also be caused by other conditions so it’s vital that you get checked out by your doctor if you experience it, saysDr Joy Trueblood.
Milky discharge is not normal and should be investigated by your doctor as soon as possible if it happens to you.
Skin Thickening
The skin of your breast can become thickened and feel rubbery, like the skin of an orange. This is known as “fibrosis” and can be a sign of cancer or just benign (non-cancerous) changes in your breasts. During a breast exam, your doctor will be able to feel this thickening with their fingers.
If you notice that one area of your breast feels more dense than another area during self-exam or when getting checked by a doctor, it could be indicative of something more serious than fibrocystic changes alone. Fibrocystic changes occur when fluid builds up under the surface layer of fat tissue that surrounds each breast glandular unit (or lobule). It’s common for women who have had children or those who are approaching menopause; however if this happens after having finished having kids then it may indicate something else going on inside there!
