Breast cancer is a condition in which cells of the breast begin to divide more rapidly than they should. This is the result of genetic mutations and alterations that cause these cells to grow and develop the ability to spread to other organs. Breast cancer can affect not only the breast itself but other organs throughout the body.
Interior Breast Changes
Some of the earliest effects of breast cancer involve the structure of the breast itself. Breast cancer can cause a thickening of the breast tissue, sometimes in the form of a lump. This lump will feel different than the rest of the tissue and may, when pressed, not be as mobile as the surrounding breast tissue. These abnormal lumps may also cause visible changes in the size and shape of the affected breast.
Exterior Changes
Some of the effects of breast cancer will be apparent on the exterior of the breast. Portions of the breast may be red and warm to the touch. The nipple may also become inverted. Other symptoms include nipple discharge (sometimes bloody) and peeling or flaking of the nipple skin. Breast cancer can also cause dimpling of the skin of the breast or pitting (making it appear somewhat like an orange peel).
Lymph Nodes
The lymph system is the way that the body is able to drain excess fluid from tissue. Because the lymph system is an easily accessible network, it is one of the first places that breast cancer spreads. Consequently, swelling of the lymph nodes can occur before the tumor can be felt in the breast itself. These swollen lymph nodes will most commonly be in the armpit and will cause these nodes to be hard, easily palpable by the hand, and sometimes painful.
Metastatic Breast Cancer
One of the biggest dangers of breast cancer is its potential to metastasize, which means spreading to other parts of the body. Once cancer spreads it can cause "constitutional" symptoms, which affect how you feel overall. Examples of these constitutional symptoms include extreme fatigue, loss of appetite and headache.
Effects On Organs
When breast cancer spreads, it can cause problems in the organs where it has metastasized. For example, if breast cancer spreads to the bones, it can cause severe bone pain and easy breaking. If it spreads to the brain, it can cause problems with vision, changes in personality, confusion, loss of balance, and weakness in the arms or legs. Metastasis to the lungs can cause a persistent cough, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Breast cancer can also spread to the liver, where it can cause abdominal pain, a constant feeling of fullness and jaundice.
