Breast cancer is caused by unusual and uncontrollable cell growth. This cell growth causes tumor formation, disruption of the functioning of the organ, and sometimes spread to other organs.
All women and men have a lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. There are several factors that increase the risk. Women between the ages of 65 and 74, those who smoke and drink alcohol, women who have experienced early puberty or late menopause, and women who are very overweight are at greater risk.
Many cancerous tumors are detected by women themselves. For this reason, it is very valuable to be aware of the natural changes in the breast, especially during the menstrual cycle. It is necessary to perform systematic palpation and consult a specialist if any alarming change is observed.
MOST COMMON SYMPTOM: Lumps
The first thing to look out for is the feeling of a mass in the chest. In most cases, these lumps are benign and do not form a tumor, but they can form a cyst or fibroadenoma. As a precaution, it is necessary to consult a specialist as soon as these abnormalities appear.
If cancerous, the tuber usually appears unsystematic. The lump does not change according to the menstrual cycle and periods, adheres deeply to the skin and is not mobile.
9 SYMPTOMS EXCEPT FOR FUNCTION
Other than lumps felt in the chest, symptoms that may reveal breast cancer may occur. Here are 9 situations to watch out for.
Nipple Discharge
If you are breastfeeding or pregnant, a breast discharge is probably not a cause for alarm. However, other than these situations, nipple discharge can be a sign of an important condition. A clear, greenish, or yellowish discharge from the nipples may be a sign of breast cancer.
Freckles
Dark spots or unusual freckles on the skin are not only a sign that you should visit a dermatologist, they can also be a sign of inflammatory breast cancer, a rare and more aggressive form of breast cancer. But don’t panic, because inflammatory breast cancer is extremely rare.
Red Spots or Bruises
Other symptoms of breast cancer include skin spots such as red dots or bruises on the skin. If you notice these types of spots and they don’t go away for more than two to three weeks, definitely see a specialist. But keep in mind that many types of red spots on the skin are completely benign.
Changes in the Appearance of the Nipple
Except during pregnancy, nipples usually do not change in condition, size, or color. If you notice a random change in the appearance of your nipples, you should get tested for breast cancer. If the nipple is collapsed or twisted, definitely consult a specialist.
Itching and flaking of the skin on the nipples may be symptoms of Paget’s disease of the chest, which is a minor type of disease. It mostly affects the nipple and the skin around it. The nipples and surrounding skin may appear as scaly skin and may even cause tingling or stinging.
Changes in Skin Texture
Breast cancer can sometimes cause changes in the texture of the breast skin. Note the orange peel-like protruding reddish surface. This happens because the breast tissue becomes inflamed and fluid builds up due to cancer cells blocking the small lymph channels within the breast.
Swelling or Tenderness
Swelling or tenderness of the breasts is a common nuisance for women during the moderate parts of the menstrual cycle and can even be a sign of early pregnancy. This is why women often ignore it as a warning sign of breast cancer. You should see a doctor, especially if you think only one breast is getting bigger or swollen. If the lump is below the surface, you may not be able to feel it, but you may experience swelling.
Changes in the size or shape of the breasts
Weight gain, changes in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or breastfeeding can affect the size and shape of the breasts. However, if the breasts change form independently of these factors and this change happens suddenly, this may be a sign of cancer and a specialist should definitely be consulted.
Hard Lumps in the Armpit
The presence of hard lumps in the armpits may be a sign of cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes. Consulting an expert is valuable.
Late Symptoms
If cancer is not diagnosed in its early stages, the tumor grows, spreads to other parts of the body, and can cause different symptoms. These symptoms include bone pain, unexplained weight loss, nausea, loss of appetite, jaundice, shortness of breath, fluid around the lungs, cough, headache, double vision, and muscle weakness.