What Are the Early Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

Overview

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting women worldwide. It is essential to be aware of the early signs and symptoms of breast cancer as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes. While breast cancer can vary from person to person, there are several common indicators that can help identify the disease at its initial stages.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

• Breast lump or thickening: The most common early sign of breast cancer is the presence of a lump or thickening in the breast tissue. These lumps are typically painless and can be found during self-examination or noticed while bathing or getting dressed. It's important to note that not all breast lumps are cancerous, but any new or unusual lump should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
• Changes in breast size or shape: Unexplained changes in breast size or shape can be an early indication of breast cancer. This may involve one breast appearing larger or lower than the other, or a noticeable change in the overall shape or contour of the breast. Women should pay attention to any unusual alterations in their breast appearance.
• Nipple abnormalities: Changes in the nipple can be an early sign of breast cancer. Look out for symptoms such as nipple inversion (when the nipple turns inward), nipple discharge (particularly if it is bloody or clear), or redness, scaling, or thickening of the nipple or surrounding area. These changes should be promptly examined by a healthcare professional.
• Skin changes: Breast cancer can cause noticeable changes in the skin texture or appearance of the breast. Some of these changes may include redness, puckering, dimpling, or the appearance of an orange peel texture (peau d'orange). Any unexplained skin changes should be assessed by a medical expert.
• Breast pain or discomfort: While breast pain is a common occurrence among women, persistent or unusual breast pain that does not correlate with the menstrual cycle or subsides after the cycle should be evaluated. It's worth mentioning that breast pain is rarely a symptom of breast cancer, but it's essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause.
• Swollen lymph nodes: Breast cancer may cause the lymph nodes under the arm or around the collarbone to become swollen or tender. While swollen lymph nodes can also be a sign of infection, it is crucial to have them examined if they persist for an extended period or are accompanied by other breast changes.

How to perform a breast self-check?

Step 1: Choose the Right Time

Select a time in your monthly cycle when your breasts are least likely to be tender or swollen. The ideal time is usually a few days after your period ends.

Step 2: Get Comfortable

Stand in front of a mirror in a well-lit room and undress from the waist up. Make sure your breasts are exposed and your arms are relaxed by your side.

Step 3: Visual Inspection

Begin by visually inspecting your breasts. Look for any changes in size, shape, or contour. Observe for dimpling, redness, rash, or any visible abnormalities on the skin. Also, note if your nipples are inverted (turned inward) or if there is any discharge.

Step 4: Raise Your Arms

Raise your arms overhead and observe your breasts' appearance in this position. Look for the same changes as mentioned in step 3.

Step 5: Manual Examination - Lying Down

Lie down on your back and place a pillow under your right shoulder. Using your left hand, examine your right breast. Use the pads of your middle three fingers (not fingertips) and make gentle, circular motions. Start from the outer edge and move inwards towards the nipple, covering the entire breast and armpit area. Apply light pressure for superficial tissues and gradually increase pressure to reach deeper tissues. Take note of any lumps, thickening, or areas that feel different from the rest of the breast tissue.

Step 6: Manual Examination - Sitting or Standing

Repeat the manual examination in step 5 while sitting or standing. You can use body lotion or soap to allow your fingers to glide smoothly over your breast. Remember to examine both breasts individually.

Step 7: Nipple Examination

Gently squeeze each nipple between your thumb and index finger, looking for any discharge. Note that a small amount of clear or milky fluid is usually normal, but consult your healthcare provider if you notice blood or a persistent discharge.

Step 8: Repeat Regularly

Perform a breast self-check once a month. Familiarize yourself with the normal look and feel of your breasts so that you can detect any changes promptly.

Step 9: Seek Medical Attention

If you notice any of the following changes during your self-check, consult your healthcare provider immediately:

• A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit area.
• Changes in breast size, shape, or contour.
• Dimpling, puckering, or indentation of the breast skin.
• Swelling, redness, or warmth.
• Nipple changes, such as inversion, discharge, or persistent pain.

Causes of breast pain and tenderness

• Hormonal Fluctuations: Hormonal changes within the body, particularly during the menstrual cycle, are a common cause of breast pain and tenderness. As estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall, the breast tissue can become more sensitive, leading to discomfort. Typically, this pain occurs in the premenstrual phase and subsides once menstruation begins.
• Fibrocystic Breast Changes: Fibrocystic breast changes refer to noncancerous lumps or cysts that develop in breast tissue. This condition affects many women and can cause breast pain and tenderness, especially in specific areas of the breast. These changes are often related to hormonal fluctuations and are typically more noticeable before menstruation. Regular breast self-exams and clinical breast exams can help differentiate between benign lumps and potentially cancerous masses.
• Breast Infections: Infections such as mastitis, an inflammation of breast tissue, can cause breast pain and tenderness. Mastitis is commonly associated with breastfeeding, but it can also occur in women who are not lactating. It is usually caused by bacteria entering the breast tissue through a cracked or sore nipple. In addition to pain and tenderness, symptoms may include redness, swelling, warmth, and flu-like symptoms. Prompt medical attention is essential to manage and treat breast infections effectively.
• Musculoskeletal Causes: Sometimes, breast pain may not originate from the breast tissue itself but rather from underlying musculoskeletal issues. Strained chest muscles, pulled ligaments, or even conditions such as costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone) can cause breast pain that mimics tenderness. These conditions often result from physical trauma, strenuous exercise, or poor posture.
• Medications and Hormonal Treatments: Certain medications, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and oral contraceptives, can lead to breast pain and tenderness as a side effect. These medications can disrupt the hormonal balance within the body, causing breast tissue to become more sensitive. If breast pain or tenderness develops after starting a new medication, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to explore alternative options or adjust the dosage.
• Other Possible Causes: While less common, there are other potential causes of breast pain and tenderness that should not be ignored. These include breast trauma or injury, breast cysts, breast cancer (though pain is less frequently associated with it), and rarely, cardiac-related issues such as angina or heart disease. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any serious conditions and determine the appropriate course of action.

Bottom Line

Early detection plays a critical role in the successful treatment of breast cancer. While the presence of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate breast cancer, being aware of the early signs and promptly consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Regular self-examinations, mammograms, and clinical breast examinations are essential for women's breast health. Remember, early detection saves lives, so stay vigilant and prioritize your breast health.