Symptoms of Breast Cancer
The first symptom of breast cancer most women notice is a lump or an area of thickened tissue in their breast. Most lumps (90%) are not cancerous, but it is always best to have them checked.
Breast Lumps
The most common cause of breast lumps are fibroadenomas, cysts and areas of localised nodularity, however, this is often the only sign that you may have cancer, so it is vitally important that you act early.
Breast or Nipple Pain
Pain in either of your breasts or armpits not related to your period.
Changes in your nipple
A change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast.
Nipple Discharge
Discharge from either of your nipples (which may be streaked with blood).
Lump in the underarm
Sometimes a breast cancer can spread to lymph nodes under the arm or around the collar bone and cause a lump or swelling, even before the original tumor in the breast is large enough to be felt.
Swelling of all of the breast
Watch for any changes in the contour or shape of the breast.
Skin Irritation
Watch for redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin.
Dimpling on the breast
Dimpling on the skin of your breasts (sometimes looking like an orange peel).
Although any of these symptoms can be caused by things other than breast cancer, if you have them, please take action today and book in for a check-up or visit your local GP.
Early detection is vital and can save lives.
