Early Signs of Breast Cancer

Knowing the warning and early signs of breast cancer is crucial in its prevention and treatment. More often than not, there are visible signs of tumor in your breasts that you can see or even feel. But be aware that it is possible for warning signs to be not visible.

You don't feel any lump if you develop the inflammatory type. My co-worker who died of the invasive type only this January 2012 didn't feel any lump. The visible symptom she had was a rash on the skin of her breasts which got worse in time.

An outward and usual first sign is either a thickening, a lump, or a dimple in the breast.

It can happen that you are not be able to notice it on your own as the lump or thickening may still be too small for you to feel or to cause any unusual changes.

A lump that is hard, painless, and has uneven edges is likely to be the first warning sign of tumor in your breasts, regardless of the type.

The lump may also be tender, soft, and rounded.

What to Look Out For

Warning signs are similar for both male and female breast cancers and special and non-special types. The American Cancer Society has a list of early indications to be aware of.

You should do self-examination of your breasts every now and then for easy prevention of the disease.

Check out for the following:

• Pain in the area
• Pain in the nipples
• Inverted nipples or nipples turning inward - this is one of the inflammatory breast cancer symptoms
• Swelling of all or a part of the breasts
• Lump in the underarm area
• Skin irritation in the area of your breasts
• Dimple in your breasts
• Unusual discharge from nipples
• Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or skin.

Now that you know what warning signs to look out for, are you aware that even if you have one or more of the early signs of breast cancer, it still doesn't mean you have the disease?

Confused? Well, don't be. A lump may develop in your breasts but most of these lumps may turn out to be just a benign tumor. Sometimes a lump will turn out to be just an infection or a cyst.

A number of reasons other than a tumor can cause your breasts to change in size or feel.

For instance, you may experience some changes in your breasts when you are pregnant. These changes are normal because the tissues of your breasts are affected by hormonal changes in your body.

Your menstrual cycle may also cause some changes. You may feel soreness, or tenderness, or pain before your menstrual period.

But what if it's really a tumor? Have yourself checked thoroughly. Although most lumps are benign, each lump should be checked by your doctor to rule out tumor or any other serious disease.

And if you want to prevent it, learn what causes and the early signs of breast cancer.

Related Pages You Might Like:

Deadly Breast Cancer Type: Invasive Ductal or Lobular Type | Special Types of Breast Cancer | Understanding What Causes Breast Cancer | Stories of Breast Cancer Survivors

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