Every woman knows that finding a lump on your breast is a warning sign of breast cancer, but there are other hidden symptoms.
Breast cancer can develop in various forms. Sometimes a lump can develop deep within the breast tissue so it is unnoticeable. A person could also develop inflammatory breast cancer, which would have entirely different symptoms.
Here are 5 warning signs you should look out for:
1. Change in shape or size of a breast. Because a developing tumor may be hidden deep within the breast tissue, the next best way to detect a breast cancer warning sign is by looking for changes in the breast. Face a mirror and move your arms to see different angles. Is the breast more oval than it was before? Does your bra feel tighter now than previously? Does there appear to be more tissue in one part than what was there before? Does one breast look considerably different than the other? Any of these slight changes may be a sign of breast cancer.
2. Experiencing pain, swelling, or a lump in your armpit. Because lymphatic fluid naturally drains from the breast, when cancer develops the first place it moves to are the lympth nodes in the armpit. Any pain, swollen, or tender areas in the armpit area should be checked carefully with your fingers. It would be a sign of cancer if you find a lump that is hard and does not move or the tissue is very dense compared to the tissue of your other armpit.
3. Changes with nipple. It is common to develop a tumor underneath the nipple, which can cause the appearance of the nipple to change. A nipple may become inverted or be more flat than it used to be or compared to your other nipple. You may also experience a decrease in sensitivity. You may also experience nipple watery, bloody, or milky discharge even if you are not breastfeeding.
4. Breast(s) that are itchy, sore, or red. Skin that feels hot or irritated to the touch is a warning sign of a rare form of breast cancer called inflammatory breast cancer. This form of breast cancer may cause the skin to become irritated, red, and sore. The skin may also develop dimples. Purplish areas that look like bruises may also develop.
5. Upper back pain. Many times before any other sign of breast cancer is detected, women experience pain in their upper back. This pain is often prevalent between the shoulder blades and it can easily be confused with sore muscles, pulled ligaments, or osteoarthritis.
Always remember that if you feel there is some new change that is not ordinary for you, then be sure to follow up with your doctor. If your instincts tell you there is something wrong, then trust it.
Source:
5 Surprising Signs of Breast Cancer
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