According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women and is the second leading cause of cancer death among this gender. However, even with these statistics, more than two million women who are diagnosed survive this disease. The key to survival is early detection and treatment. This is why it is so imperative to know and recognize its symptoms.
Lumps
In the early stages of breast cancer, the most common symptom is a lump that is generally painless. According to the medical experts at Health Central, half of these lumps are located on the upper, outer portion of your breast; some are located in your underarm area. The American Cancer Society has stated that a hard lump with uneven edges is indicative of cancer. However, the lump may also be soft and rounded, still a sign of breast cancer.
Changes in Nipples
In some cases, your nipple may retract and the skin of your aerola--the area surrounding your nipple--may be red or swollen. You may also notice a clear or bloody discharge, while the skin of your entire breast appears dimpled. This may vary slightly depending on the type of breast cancer you are diagnosed with.
Breast Pain
Breast pain can have a number of causes, some of which may be a sign of breast cancer. If you have a persistent pain located only in one area of one of your breasts, and it continue to gets worse without explanation, you should speak to your doctor immediately.
Moderate to severe pain in your breast may be caused by a tumor that began as a lump; this is why it is imperative to have a mammogram--a diagnostic breast exam-- performed each year. It may be the only way to detect your breast cancer while it's still in the early stages.
Skin Rash
Skin rashes typically appear with Paget's Disease, one of the least common forms of breast cancer. This will occur on the skin of the nipple or aerola, and it causes itching. In many cases, it resembles eczema. The itching, and any scabs that may result from scratching, are indicative of cancer under the surface skin of the breast. Your skin may also appear scaly and be accompanied by a burning sensation. According to Mayo Clinic, these symptoms may be present for six to eight months before a diagnosis is made.
