Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women, and early detection is key to successful treatment. Knowing the signs and symptoms of breast cancer can help you identify any changes in your breasts and seek medical attention as soon as possible. The most common symptom of breast cancer is a lump or area of swelling around the breast, under the armpit, or near the collarbone. These lumps may be seen with the naked eye or felt with your hands during a breast self-exam.
Breast cancer lumps often feel like a pea-shaped or marbled mass just under the skin. Other signs of breast cancer include changes in skin texture or color, dimples, swelling, and pain. Triple-negative breast cancer is an aggressive type of breast cancer that is less common than other types. This rare, fast-growing type rarely causes a distinct lump.
Instead, breast skin may become thick, red, and look boneless, like an orange peel. The area may also feel hot or tender and have small bumps that look like rashes. It's important to be familiar with the typical look and feel of your breasts so you can detect any changes early on. If you notice any changes in your breasts, it's important to seek medical attention right away.
Your doctor may recommend a mammogram or MRI scan to determine if there are any signs of cancer. Women with certain gene mutations are more likely to get breast cancer at some point in their lives than those who don't. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend additional tests to monitor for signs of cancer. You can help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer by making healthy lifestyle choices such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking.
Additionally, it's important to perform regular self-exams and get regular mammograms to detect any changes in your breasts early on.
