Here Are The Signs & Symptoms Of Breast Cancer That You Should Never Ignore

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A common sign of breast cancer is a noticeable change in the size or shape of one or both breasts. It may not be a dramatic difference, but even a slight alteration is worth paying attention to.

Some women notice that their breast feels heavier or fuller, while others might spot that one breast looks unusually swollen. These changes may happen slowly, so it's important to regularly check your breasts to see if anything feels or looks different.

Finding a lump or a thickened area in your breast is perhaps the most well-known sign of breast cancer. Not all lumps are cancerous, but any new or unusual lump should be checked by a doctor.

You can often feel these lumps during a self-exam. Breast tissue can naturally feel a bit lumpy or uneven, but a firm lump that doesn't move or feels different from the rest of the breast should be examined.

Breast cancer can sometimes cause changes in the skin of the breast. This could include dimpling, where the skin looks puckered, similar to the texture of an orange peel. You might also notice redness or the skin becoming itchy and flaky.

Any changes in the way the skin of your breast looks or feels should be taken seriously, especially if they develop without a clear cause like irritation or injury.

The nipples can also show signs of breast cancer. This might include the nipple becoming inverted (turning inward) when it was previously normal, or a noticeable change in the position of the nipple.

You may also notice discharge from the nipple that isn't related to breastfeeding. This could be clear, bloody, or a different colour. Nipple discharge, especially if it's unexplained, should always be checked by a healthcare professional.

Breast pain alone isn't usually a symptom of breast cancer, but if you experience persistent pain in one breast, it's a good idea to get it checked out. Some women describe the pain as sharp or burning, while others feel a constant ache.

Pain combined with other symptoms like lumps or skin changes is even more of a reason to see a doctor.

Sometimes, breast cancer can spread to nearby lymph nodes, especially those located in the armpit or collarbone area. If you notice swelling or a lump in these areas, even if you don't feel anything in the breast itself, it's important to speak to your GP.

While fatigue isn't a symptom specific to breast cancer, it can be a general sign of the body trying to fight an illness. If you're feeling constantly tired for no apparent reason, it's worth considering alongside other symptoms.

You should aim to check your breasts once a month, preferably at the same time in your menstrual cycle if you're still having periods. Here’s how:

• Stand in front of a mirror with your arms by your side and look for any visual changes.
• Raise your arms above your head and look again for any changes in shape or skin texture.
• Use your fingers to feel around each breast and the surrounding area, including under your armpits, to check for lumps or thickened areas.

Not all changes are due to cancer, but it's always better to be safe and get checked out early. 

Don't be shy to speak to a healthcare professional about your worries concerning your breasts. Remember, they are just another part of your body, and not something to be ashamed of.

Regular mammograms and check-ups, particularly for women over the age of 40, are also crucial in catching breast cancer early.

The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a healthcare professional regarding the reader’s own medical care.