7 Visual Signs of Breast Cancer You Should Know

Breast cancer often manifests through noticeable changes in your breast, such as lumps, alterations in size or color, or modifications in nipple appearance.

This disease arises from genetic mutations in breast cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth.

While the precise cause remains unclear, individuals with a personal or family history of breast cancer or specific gene mutations face higher risks.

Breast cancer is predominantly diagnosed in women but can also affect men.

Early detection through regular mammograms and monthly self-examinations significantly improves treatment outcomes. Consult your doctor to determine the ideal screening schedule for you.

Since breast cancer cells can spread to other body parts, recognizing symptoms promptly is crucial for timely treatment.

How Does a Breast Cancer Lump Appear?

Though lumps may be felt more easily than seen, breast cancer can also cause skin changes like:

• Skin dimpling resembling an orange peel
• Peeling or flaky skin
• Inverted nipples
• Rashes

These signs don't always indicate cancer; however, any such changes warrant medical evaluation.

Explore the differences between lumpectomy and mastectomy.

Why Perform Monthly Breast Self-Exams?

Early breast cancer symptoms are often tactile rather than visible. Monthly self-exams help you familiarize yourself with your breasts' normal feel, making it easier to detect abnormalities.

Although self-exams don't guarantee early cancer detection, they can alert you to changes like lumps.

Choose a consistent time each month for self-exams—ideally a few days after menstruation begins, or a fixed date if menstruation has ceased.

Steps for a Breast Self-Exam

Place one hand on your hip and use the other to gently feel both breasts and armpits for lumps or thickened areas.

Some individuals naturally have lumpy breasts; benign tumors or cysts may cause unusual textures.

Any new or unusual changes should prompt consultation with a healthcare provider.

Learn more about pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia.

Understanding Nipple Discharge

While breastfeeding can cause milky nipple discharge, any discharge outside this context—especially if whitish, clear, or bloody—could signal breast cancer.

Discharge may occur from a single nipple or duct.

If you experience nipple discharge and are not breastfeeding, seek medical advice promptly.

Changes in Breast Size and Shape

Breast swelling during menstruation is normal, but swelling or dimpling at other times might indicate cancer.

Consult a doctor if you notice:

• Swelling in one breast only
• Swelling unrelated to your menstrual cycle
• One breast suddenly larger than the other
• Swelling accompanied by other symptoms

Other conditions like mastitis can also cause swelling.

What Are Inverted Nipples?

Nipple inversion occurs when the nipple retracts inward instead of pointing outward. While this can be normal or develop over time, it should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out cancer.

Peeling, Scaling, or Flaking Skin on the Breast

Paget disease, a rare breast cancer affecting the nipple, can cause peeling, scaling, or flaking skin. These symptoms might also result from eczema or other skin conditions.

Medical tests are necessary to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Early Signs of Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is an aggressive form that causes redness, swelling, warmth, and discoloration without a lump. It may look like clusters of insect bites and can fluctuate as the cancer progresses.

Skin Changes as Early Breast Cancer Symptoms

IBC can cause breast skin to dimple or pit, resembling an orange peel due to inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can breast cancer spread to the armpit?

Breast cancer can metastasize to axillary lymph nodes located in the armpit, especially as the disease advances.

Are breast cancer lumps in the armpit hard?

The hardness of lumps in the armpit due to breast cancer varies based on cancer type and progression.

Can skin cancer mimic breast cancer?

Skin cancer on the breast may appear similar to breast cancer but typically involves distinct skin lesions or moles. Breast cancer often presents with lumps, skin changes, nipple discharge, or shape differences. Proper medical assessment is crucial.

Does mammography detect inflammatory breast cancer?

While mammograms can reveal signs of inflammatory breast cancer, they may not always provide a clear diagnosis, necessitating further tests.

Summary

Although breast cancer can be severe, early detection and treatment greatly improve survival rates. The American Cancer Society reports a 99% five-year relative survival rate for breast cancer detected before spreading beyond the breast. This rate decreases to 86% if lymph nodes are involved and 30% if cancer spreads to distant organs.

Enhance your chances of early detection by:

• Performing regular breast self-exams
• Consulting a healthcare provider upon noticing changes
• Scheduling routine mammograms based on personal risk and age

Discuss mammogram timing and frequency with your doctor.

If diagnosed with breast cancer, remember you are not alone. Connect with supportive communities like Bezzy to share experiences and find encouragement.

Read this article in Spanish.

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