Breast Cancer Symptoms: What to look out for…

Breast cancer is a serious health concern affecting numerous women worldwide. Being aware of the symptoms can greatly aid in its early detection and subsequent treatment. Here are some key symptoms that all women should watch out for when doing breast self-examinations:

Breast cancer symptoms include:

1.  Lump(s) or thickening in the breast or underarm: A hard, painless lump or thickened area in the breast or underarm is a common early sign of breast cancer. It is essential for women to thoroughly examine their breasts regularly using self-examination, feeling for any unusual changes.
2.  Changes in breast size or shape: Any unexplained changes in breast size or shape, such as swelling, shrinkage, or asymmetry, should be monitored closely. These changes may be indicative of an underlying issue.
3. Nipple changes: Pay attention to any changes in the nipples, such as nipple inversion (turning inward), redness, scaliness, or discharge unrelated to breastfeeding. These changes should be promptly examined by a healthcare professional. Please note that nipple diseases other than cancer can occur and will need a professional’s opinion, together with mammographic screening to exclude underlying cancer.
4. Breast or nipple pain: While breast pain is often associated with non-cancerous conditions, persistent and unexplained breast or nipple pain should never be ignored. It is advisable to seek medical advice for proper evaluation.
5.  Skin changes:  Any skin changes on or around the breast, such as dimpling, puckering, or a rash, should be investigated further. These changes can be a sign of an underlying problem, including breast cancer.

How to check yourself for breast cancer symptoms 

To check themselves or their loved ones for symptoms, women can perform a monthly breast self-exam at home. This involves thoroughly examining the breasts and underarms, feeling for any lumps, changes in texture, or unusual sensations. If any abnormalities are detected, it is vital to consult with a healthcare provider promptly for further evaluation.

Breast cancer screening for early detection or monitoring of symptoms

In addition to self-exams and clinical exams, women should consider scheduling regular mammograms for breast cancer screening. Regular mammograms can play a pivotal role in detecting breast cancer at its earliest stage, increasing the chances of successful treatment. It is important for all women, particularly those over the age of 40 or with a family history of breast cancer, to consult with their healthcare providers and follow the recommended screening guidelines.

These low-dose X-rays can detect breast abnormalities, including lumps, before they can be felt manually. A popular question regarding mammograms is, “are mammograms painful?”. While some individuals may experience minor discomfort during a mammogram, the procedure is generally not considered painful. With our mobile mammography screening service, Radhiant also takes the inconvenience of scheduling and performing regular mammograms out of the equation.

Final Thoughts

Early detection is crucial in improving breast cancer outcomes. Regular self-exams, coupled with routine clinical breast exams, enable the identification of potential issues at an early stage. It is important to emphasize that early detection usually leads to more effective treatment and better survival rates.