Breast Cancer Symptoms

Breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer, following after lung cancer. For most of the time, women are told to use self-examination in order to locate lumps since this is the first and most noticeable symptom of breast cancer.

Breast cancer symptoms are usually associated with lumps. A lump that does not go away may be indicative of cancer. However, not all lumps are automatically cancerous. Only 1 out of 10 breast lumps tend to be malignant. So while you may watch out for lumps, also be alert for other symptoms. These include changes in the shape or size of the breast.

Check your breast and see if the skin is firm. If there is dimpling, this can be indicative of breast cancer. In the same way, check your nipple. If the nipple becomes irregular in shape or if it begins to sink into the breast, this may point to breast cancer. Aside from the shape of the breast, check or look out for some discharges. If the nipple releases a blood-stained substance, it can be a breast cancer symptom. Rashes surrounding your nipple and breast area may also be indicative of breast cancer. Swelling in your armpit may also be included in the symptoms.

Since lumps are one of the obvious breast cancer symptoms, you must check yourself regularly. If during this exam you feel a noticeable lump, take note of its position and size. If the lump does not go away after a couple of days, do visit your doctor. Once you get to the hospital, your doctor might ask for a mammogram or an ultrasound. The objective here is to determine whether that lump is benign (not cancerous) or otherwise malignant. It is advised that women should know how to perform the breast self exam and have an annual doctor check up.