1. Beware of Bumps in the Road
Breast lumps are relatively easy to find through regular practice of breast self-exams. A lump feels noticeably different than the surrounding areas of the breast. They usually feel hard, firm, knotty or lumpy. Softer-feeling, normal fatty tissue will surround this knot. If you find a lump, don't panic. Four out of five lumps end up being benign, or non-cancerous, but it is still essential that you see a doctor.
2. Changes in the Nipple Aren't Good
Be alarmed if there's any discharge from the nipple. Nipple discharge associated with breast cancer symptoms is often bloody, and sometimes green and puss-like. Another red flag is the overall shape of the nipple. Sometimes the nipple may retract, become flat or become inverted. Take notice of the areola, the area around the nipple. If this area changes in shape or color, you should also be concerned. Often with breast cancer, the areola darkens.
3. Sore Breasts Are a Red Flag
One breast cancer symptom often overlooked is breast tenderness, since it's common during periods. The feeling varies from woman to woman. Some women experience a burning sensation. Others feel like they have a bruise on their breast, or they may feel like their breasts are engorged like when they overfill with milk after childbirth. The breast may even feel itchy either around the nipple or as if the skin over the breast is being stretched. A doctor should check out any constant discomfort that doesn't go away after a period.
4. Don't Get Excited Over a Bigger Breast
Any change in shape or size of a breast should be an alarm, although most breasts sag with age and get bigger or smaller with weight gain or loss. The changes to be aware of are sudden changes. Be cautious of swelling in one breast, but not the other. Be wary of a heavy feeling or a thickening. Also pay close attention to changes in the armpit, such as thickening or swelling. Always look for changes in size that are not consistent between both breasts.
5. Skin Shouldn't Resemble Fruit
Take note of changes in the skin on the breast. The skin may get scaly or red. The skin may get a dimple or start to resemble an orange peel. This can happen in one area, or over the entire breast. It can also happen just to the nipple. Be cautious of ripples, folds, pitting or dents in the skin.
