Breast Cancer Symptoms

Breast cancers in their early stages are usually painless. Often the first symptom is the discovery of a hard lump. Fifty percent of such masses are found in the upper outer quarter of the breast. The lump may make the affected breast appear elevated or asymmetric. The nipple may be retracted or scaly. Sometimes the skin of the breast is dimpled like the skin of an orange. In some cases there is a bloody or clear discharge from the nipple. Many cancers, however, produce no symptoms and cannot be felt on examination. They can be detected only with a mammogram.


What to look out for

Changes that could be due to a breast cancer are

• A lump or thickening in an area of the breast

• A change in the size or shape of a breast

• Dimpling of the skin

• A change in the shape of your nipple, particularly if it turns in, sinks into the breast or becomes irregular in shape

• A blood-stained discharge from the nipple

• A rash on a nipple or surrounding area

• A swelling or lump in your armpit



Like breast lumps, these signs don't necessarily mean cancer. Inverted nipples, blood stained nipple discharge or a rash can all be due to other medical conditions. But if any of these things happen to you, you should get it checked out. It may be nothing and seeing the GP will put your mind at rest. It may be a benign condition that can easily be treated. Or at the very worst, if you have a cancer you give yourself the best chance of successful treatment by going to the doctor early on.



If you spot a lump and notice anything unusual about your breast, please see your doctor straight away. Make sure you check your breast monthly and it should include visual inspection (with and without a mirror) to note any changes in contour or texture, and manual inspection in standing and reclining positions to note any unusual lumps or thicknesses.