Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms
What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

The signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:

1) A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm that persists through the menstrual cycle.
2) A mass or lump, which may feel as small as a pea.
3) A change in the size, shape, or contour of the breast.
4) A blood-stained or clear fluid discharge from the nipple.
5) A change in the feel or appearance of the skin on the breast or nipple (dimpled, puckered, scaly, or inflamed).
6) Redness of the skin on the breast or nipple.
7) An area that is distinctly different from any other area on either breast.
8)  A marble-like hardened area under the skin.
These changes may be found during a breast self-exam.

Medical organizations don't agree on the recommendation for breast self-exams, which is an option for women starting in their 20s. Doctors should discuss the benefits and limitations of breast self-exam with their patients.