Breast cancer is a condition where malignant (cancer) cells form in the breast tissues. It is the second most common cancer in women worldwide, and rarely occurs in men. If detected early, breast cancer is fully treatable, and most breast cancer survivors go on to live healthy, full lives. Like it is with all cancers, the symptoms may be mild at first, and usually unnoticeable, but it is important to keep a check, especially if someone in your blood line has had breast cancer (sibling, mother, maternal aunt etc). Here are 5 early symptoms of breast cancer that should not be overlooked…
Changes in skin around your breast
One of the subtle signs of breast cancer is a change in the skin texture on the breast, which can look like dimpling or puckering. This is sometimes described as resembling the skin of an orange. These changes happen when cancer cells block lymph vessels under the skin, causing swelling and thickening. The skin may look tight, rough, or have small dents. Because these changes can be mistaken for skin conditions like eczema, they are often overlooked.
Unexplained nipple changes
Nipple changes are another early symptom that many women miss. These changes include sudden nipple inversion (where the nipple pulls inward instead of pointing outward), nipple retraction, or unusual nipple discharge. The discharge may be clear, bloody, or appear without squeezing and usually happens in only one breast. While some nipple changes can be harmless, sudden changes or persistent nipple discharge should never be ignored, as they can indicate breast cancer.Swelling or lumps in underarmsBreast cancer can spread to nearby lymph nodes before a lump is noticeable in the breast itself. Swelling or lumps under the arm or near the collarbone may be one of the first signs of this spread. These lumps may feel firm, tender, or irregular in shape. Because they are outside the breast, they can be easily overlooked or mistaken for swollen lymph nodes due to infection.Chronic FatigueFatigue is a common symptom in daily life, and is usually overlooked. However, persistent, chronic fatigue (and not the daily tiredness) that does not improve with rest, can be an early sign of breast cancer. This happens because the body uses a lot of energy fighting cancer and dealing with inflammation. If fatigue is accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss or loss of appetite, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.
Persistent breast or nipple painMany women experience breast pain related to their menstrual cycle or minor injuries, so they often dismiss breast pain as normal. However, persistent, localized pain in one area of the breast or nipple that does not go away and is not linked to hormonal changes needs to be checked out. This pain may feel sharp, burning, or throbbing and should not be ignored, especially if it is new or different from usual breast discomfort. Persistent pain can sometimes indicate inflammation or a growing tumor that needs medical attention. However, it needs to be noted that pain is not the primary sign of breast cancer, and is usually not related to early stage cancer.Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional if you notice any changes in your body
