According to MayoClinic.com, breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of breast cells. Breast cancer can occur in men and women, but it’s far more common in women. Breast cancer usually begins in the cells of lobules or ducts. However, sometimes breast cancer can also begin in the stromal tissues of the breast. According to BreastCancer.org, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States. More than 1 in 4 cancers are breast cancer. Some of the complications of breast cancer are lymphedema or arm swelling, osteoporosis and nipple discharge.
Lymphedema or Arm Swelling
Lymphedema or arm swelling is the complication of breast cancer surgery. The American Cancer Society says lymphedema is often associated with the breast cancer treatment that involves axillary lymph node dissection or radiation to the axillary lymph nodes. According to the American Cancer Society, the first symptom of lymphedema is a feeling of tightness in the arm or hand on the same side. The American Cancer Society recommends that if you feel this, consult a physician immediately. The possibility of developing lymphedema remains throughout the life of women. Avoid having blood drawn from or blood pressure taken on the arm on the side of the lymph node surgery or radiation.
Osteoporosis
Breast cancer treatment can result in osteoporosis. According to MayoClinic.com, osteoporosis or bone thinning is one of the complications that can occur after treating breast cancer with hormone-blocking therapy, a process that involves blocking of the hormones for treating cancer. It's used to shrink and control breast cancer.
Nipple Discharge
According to MayoClinic.com, breast cancer is often associated with nipple discharge. Breast cancer is possible if you're still having periods and there's extensive nipple discharge that doesn’t resolve. The MayoClinic.com recommends patients to consult a physician in such conditions. However, postmenopausal women can also experience nipple discharge at any time. MayoClinic.com further advises such postmenopausal women to consult a physician.
