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Breast Cancer Signs: Subtle Indicators To Facilitate Verifying Breast Cancer

Cancer in any form can be a deadly disease, quickly spreading throughout the human body. The more quickly symptoms are diagnosed, the more effective appropriate treatments are likely to be.

Understanding and being able to detect breast cancer signs are crucial for early detection of the disease and higher success rates. As the most common cancer amongst women in the U.S., breast cancer is a brazen reality and on the rise. Fortunately, it’s also a disease with a high cure rate, particularly if it’s detected early.

To learn about known breast cancer signs and symptoms and how to detect them in your own body, keep reading

Lump in the Breast

The majority of breast cancer cases (80%) are diagnosed after a person finds a lump in her own breast and makes an appointment with her doctor. Identifying a lump is usually the easiest and most direct way of detecting the disease.

Most women find lumps during a routine Breast Self Exam (BSE). To learn how to give yourself a breast examination, the Komen website (an organization dedicated to supporting women with breast cancer) offers instructions online, komen.org.

Changing Breast Shape, Skin Texture or Size

Another common symptom or sign is a distinct change in the breast’s shape, size or texture. Many women experience a dimpling of the skin with an almost orange peel effect around and under the nipple.

Soreness and Skin Irritation

Women diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) typically experience redness, swelling, heat and pain throughout the breast and nipple. The symptom basically resembles a skin inflammation, like an allergic reaction to a product or fabric.

Paget’s Disease of the Breast

Paget’s disease is what is considered a secondary or complex symptom of breast cancer. Essentially, the skin of the breast and/or nipple feels and appears as though it’s afflicted by eczema. The skin is flaking, itchy, irritated and red.

Loss of Appetite

Not all breast cancer patients experience a decreased appetite and subsequent weight loss, but many do. Cancer is a disease that can often affect the entire body, even if it’s localized. Often, patients’ diets are adversely affected.

Depression and Anxiety

Unfortunately, mental and emotional symptoms aren’t as documented or researched as physical indicators. However, many women who are diagnosed with breast cancer report symptoms of depression and anxiety even before their diagnosis.

Family History

If any of your immediate family members or several members of your extended family have been diagnosed with breast cancer, then you need to let your doctor know. You should also commit to monthly self breast exams and annual mammograms.

From Symptoms to Diagnosis

If you’re experiencing any or all the above breast cancer symptoms or have signs of any other cancer, then you may want to consult with your doctor. Remember, the sooner breast cancer is detected, the better your long-term prognosis.

The American Cancer Society recommends conducting a monthly self breast exam and an annual mammogram to detect breast cancer signs like a lump or skin changes.

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