Breast cancer is a serious condition that can cause changes in the skin cells of the breast, leading to pain, tenderness, and discomfort. While it is usually painless, it is important to be aware of any signs or symptoms that may be related to breast cancer. The most common symptom of breast cancer is a lump or mass in the breast, which is usually hard and painless. However, not all lumps are cancerous and benign breast conditions such as cysts can also cause lumps.
In some cases, breast cancer can cause pain or discomfort in the breast or nipple area. It is important to note that breast pain or discomfort is often related to the menstrual cycle and other non-cancerous conditions such as mastitis can also cause sudden pain. If you experience severe or persistent breast pain, it is important to consult your healthcare team for an examination. It could be due to cancer or a benign condition that needs treatment.
Additionally, muscle tension or overuse in the same physical area as the breast tissue can also cause pain that feels like it is coming from the breast. It is important to remember that breast pain is rarely the first noticeable symptom of breast cancer. Other factors such as skin conditions like eczema and swollen lymph nodes due to unrelated illnesses can also cause pain. Mammograms are an effective way to detect a tumor before it causes symptoms and when it is more likely to be treated easily.
Breast cancer can also be classified based on certain characteristics, although the initial signs and symptoms are similar. Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a type of breast cancer that rarely causes lumps and may not show up on a mammogram. It is more common among women who are breastfeeding but can occur in other women as well. The doctor will examine the breasts and skin of the breasts for any signs of nipple problems or secretions.
According to Kazuaki Takabe, MD, PhD, FACS and clinical head of breast surgery at the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, only a very small percentage of women (about 1%) will be diagnosed with breast cancer after experiencing breast pain. Invasive breast cancer refers to cancer that spreads from the original site to other areas of the body. Men may not regularly check their breasts for signs of lumps so male breast cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage. It is important to remember that although pain can be associated with something bad, it does not necessarily mean that you have breast cancer.If you have any concerns about your health, it is important to consult your healthcare team for an examination.
