Signs and symptoms of breast cancer
Remember, lumps in the breast are very common, especially just before your period. Most lumps are not breast cancer. |
Most often breast cancer is first noticed as a painless lump in the breast or armpit. You or your partner may discover the lump, or your doctor may find it during a routine physical exam or screening mammogram. Other signs might include:
- lump or swelling in the armpit
- changes in breast size or shape
- dimpling or puckering of the skin – thickening and dimpling skin is sometimes called orange peel
- redness, swelling and increased warmth in the affected breast
- inverted nipple – nipple turns inwards
- crusting or scaling on the nipple
Often, these symptoms are not caused by cancer. Other health problems can cause them. Testing is necessary to make a diagnosis.
Last modified on:
18 August 2010
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