Symptoms and Early Signs of Breast Cancer

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among American women according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It can begin in any of the three main parts of a breast—the lobules, ducts or connective tissue. The lobules are the milk-producing gland in the breast while the ducts are the pathways that help carry milk to the nipple. The connective tissue is a fibrous and fatty tissue that holds everything together. It is said to have metastasized when breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body through blood vessels and lymph vessels.

Women over 50 are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer, but it can affect younger women as well. Although men can develop breast cancer too, it’s much rarer but is just as serious as the breast cancer women are diagnosed with.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer may not cause any symptoms in its early stages. Some breast changes can be felt, but most can be detected only with the use of imaging procedures, such as a mammogram, MRI or ultrasound. That’s why it’s important to do breast-self exams to help you learn how your breasts normally feel. This way it would be easier for you to notice and find changes. However, breast self-exams are not a substitute for mammograms.

If you have any of the following symptoms, see your doctor right away:

• New lump in the breast or underarm
• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast
• Irritation, itching or dimpling of breast skin
• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast
• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood
• Any change in the size of the shape of the breast
• Pain in any area of the breast

What Do Lumps in My Breast Mean?

Lumps come in different shapes and sizes. Although lumps may point to cancer, many other conditions can cause lumps in the breast. Note that normal breast tissue can sometimes feel lumpy too. Some of the conditions that cause breast lumps are fibrocystic breasts and cysts.

How Can I Reduce My Risk?

While there are risk factors you can’t control, such as getting older or genetics, subscribing to a healthy lifestyle and taking preventive measures can help lower your risk of developing breast cancer.

• Obesity and alcohol misuse increase your risk for developing breast cancer. Go for a nutrient-dense diet, exercise as often as possible and limit intake of alcoholic drinks.
• Regular mammograms may not prevent breast cancer, but early is key in breast cancer detection. Consider having annual screenings by the time you reach the age of 40 or based on the recommendations of your doctor.
• If you’re taking hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives, ask your doctor about the risks and other possible alternatives.
• Breastfeed your children, if possible.
• Having a family history of breast cancer or inherited changes in your BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can significantly raise your risk. Discuss your diagnostic and preventive treatment options with your doctor.

Early detection and treatment of breast cancer can save lives. Don’t delay care. We have precautions in place to ensure your safety so you can stay on top of your breast health. We are here for you.

Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
MedlinePlus
Healthline