Early diagnosis of breast cancer can result in more positive outcomes. However, it can be challenging to diagnose the condition in some instances, as early stages of the disease do not always cause obvious symptoms. Along with undergoing regular mammograms according to your doctor’s recommendations, watching for the following symptoms increases the chance that you can address breast cancer in its earliest stages.
Lumps within the breast can result from numerous medical conditions, including the development of non-cancerous cysts. Inflamed milk ducts can also resemble lumps, which can result from an infection. Any newly formed lumps should be assessed by a doctor, however, to rule out breast cancer and determine whether treatment is needed for another health issue. When it comes to self-exams, they should be performed once every month, approximately three to five days after the beginning of your period.
Like lumps in breast tissue, nipple discharge can result from a range of medical conditions. Along with lactation, discharge can be caused by an imbalance of hormones, benign cysts, and injuries. With breast cancer, nipple discharge usually only affects one breast, and the discharge is often bloody or translucent. These symptoms necessitate an immediate examination to determine the underlying cause of the discharge.
The presence of dry, scaly skin, or tissue that appears inflamed and thicker than normal, are also signs of breast cancer. This symptom is often most evident in the area around the nipple and areola and may be accompanied by an itchy sensation. Keep in mind that these symptoms can also be present with skin conditions like dermatitis, so you will need a diagnosis from a doctor to pinpoint the exact cause of skin texture changes.