Initial breast cancer treatment attempts to eliminate all breast cancer cells in the body; however, sometimes not all cancer cells are destroyed. A small amount of cells may remain in the body undetected. According to the Mayo Clinic, recurrence can happen months or even years after the first breast cancer treatment. Breast cancer may occur in the same location, or cells may spread to other parts of the body, including the bones, lungs or other organs. Many women who have been treated for breast cancer always fear the disease's return. Know and understand your body; report any unusual symptoms to your doctor, if they have not resolved within a week. Signs of recurrence depend on the location of the new cancer growth.
Local Signs & Symptoms
Locally, the breast cancer may form in the breast or nearby chest wall. A small bump or nodule may be felt on the breast or surrounding chest tissues. When touching the skin, the area may be tender or painful to touch. The bump or nodule is often firm to the touch---the skin may appear slightly red.
If a lumpectomy was performed, the skin may show signs of pulling back, or tightening. The nipples may become flat or indented. Bones in the chest cavity may also be associated with pain. If a mastectomy has been performed, one or more nodules may appear around the chest wall. The skin may become thicker along the scar tissue. Often breast cancers will only recur in the same breast, and not move to the opposite breast.
Regional Symptoms
Regional recurrence means the cancer has formed in the lymph nodes in the armpit or collarbone, yet has not moved beyond the chest cavity. Signs of regional recurrence include arm pain and swelling.
Feeling no sensation in the the arm or shoulder is an additional sign. A person may also feel chest pain and have difficulty swallowing when eating.
Metastasize Symptoms
Cancerous cells can spread, or metastasize, to nearby areas of the body. Commonly, breast cancer may spread to the lungs, liver or bones, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Respiratory symptoms include difficulty breathing, dry cough and shortness of breath.
Abdominal symptoms include nausea and vomiting, jaundice, abdominal discomfort and tenderness. A person may experience severe headaches and have vision problems. Seizures or a feeling of imbalance are more severe signs the breast cancer has reoccurred.
No Symptoms
Sometimes no symptoms can be identified. A positive diagnosis of recurrence is made by medical tests. Routine x-rays and mammograms may identify cancer regrowth in the body. Mammograms are recommended one year after breast cancer therapy, on a yearly basis.
