Don’t Wait: Early Breast Cancer Symptoms Everyone Should Recognize

A lump in the breast is the most well-known sign of breast cancer. It can send a wave of panic over anyone who notices one on themselves. However, there are other symptoms of breast cancer to look out for. In a general sense, any changes to breasts shouldn’t be dismissed, such as shifts in size and shape. If you notice such differences, consult your healthcare practitioner, but don’t panic. It’s likely the symptoms are from a more benign issue, but it’s always better to have a professional clarify that. Here are some early symptoms of breast cancer everyone should know.

Early symptoms of breast cancer

A doctor showing a breast tumor or cancer on an anatomical model of the breast to educate women about the prevention and treatment of breast diseases.. — *When cancer cells multiply in the breast’s ducts or lobules, they can form a hard, irregular mass that’s noticeable to the naked eye. Image credit: Shutterstock*

Breast tumors vary depending on the individual. Some may have no symptoms at all, which is why preventative screenings are so important. The most well-known sign is a lump or node in or on the breast or armpit. However, lumps can also be from fibrocystic breast conditions and cysts, according to the CDC. Speak to a doctor if you are concerned about a node, or any of these signs:

General pain in or on the breast
Nipple discharge (not breastmilk)
Enlargement in one or both breasts
Change of shape in one or both breasts
Changes in the appearance of one or both nipples
Swelling, redness, or other abnormalities on the skin of one or both breasts

Early symptoms of invasive breast cancer

Young female checking her breast at home , Cancer awareness — Breast changes aren’t necessarily signs of cancer, but it’s best to bring up any concerns to a doctor.
Image credit: Shutterstock

Invasive breast cancer is the most common type of breast cancer. It occurs when cancer cells begin in the ducts or glands and then spread to the surrounding tissue. All types of breast cancer tend to have overlapping symptoms, but it can be helpful to know specific signs to point them out to a healthcare professional.

Itchy or irritated breasts
Breasts that enlarge or change shape over a short timespan
A thickening or lump in the breast
Tenderness or warmth in the breast
Breast skin is red or pitted (which can resemble the textured skin of a citrus fruit)
Nipple skin that flakes or peels

Symptoms of later-stage invasive breast cancer

Stressed woman suffering breast ache sitting on a couch at home — *Initially, cancerous lumps are generally painless, but they may become more painful as the disease progresses. Image credit: Shutterstock*

As the cancer spreads, symptoms of invasive breast cancer may become more noticeable. These signs may include:

A lump or mass in the breast or armpit
Swelling, even if there’s no lump, in the breast or armpit
Pain in the breast or nipples
Dimpling or irritation on the skin
Nipples that turn inward (retract)
Nipple discharge
Skin on the breasts or nipple looks scaly, red, or thicker than usual

Symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer

Young woman suffering from breast pain at home, closeup — *Inflammatory breast cancer is hard to diagnose because it often presents as a common breast infection.* *Image credit: Shutterstock*

Inflammatory breast cancers (IBC) are harder to diagnose because they don’t typically come with the tell-tale lump. Self-examination often doesn’t work, and they may not even be picked up during mammogram screenings. This is an aggressive form of cancer that can progress rapidly, so be mindful of its symptoms and promptly speak to your healthcare provider about any concerns. Although it doesn’t present as a lump, IBC can come with noticeable surface changes, explains City of Hope National Medical Center. These include:

Swollen, itchy, red, and tender breasts
Breast skin has a ridged or pitted texture (akin to a citrus peel)
One breast is notably larger than the other
Pain, burning, or heaviness in one breast
Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit or above the collarbone
Symptoms persist after antibiotic treatment (which rules out mastitis as a diagnosis)

Symptoms of metastatic breast cancer

Professional, woman and headache of eye strain in office for article submission deadline, brain fog and burnout. Black person, journalist and migraine for incorrect prescription, fatigue and stress — *If cancer cells spread, they can cause new symptoms depending on the affected area.*
*Image credit: Shutterstock*

Metastasis is the process by which cancer cells spread from the primary site (duct or lobule) to other parts of the body. Signs of metastatic breast cancer depend on its stage and where the cells have spread. Sometimes there are no signs at all. Here are some commonly affected body parts and their physical reactions:

Breast or chest wall: pain, nipple discharge, and a lump or thickening in the breast or armpit
Brain or spinal cord: headaches, blurred or double vision, confusion, pain, memory loss, difficulties moving or speaking, or seizures
Bones: pain, fractures, constipation, nausea, confusion, or fatigue
Liver: fatigue, nausea, yellow or itchy skin, swollen hands or feet, or an enlarged abdomen
Lungs: difficulty breathing, coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue

Cancer without symptoms

Young African patient woman consulting doctor in clinic, telling healthcare complaints for physician writing notes, talking to medical specialist, asking for treatment, prescription for pills — *Regular screenings can catch cancer before it progresses and develops symptoms. Image credit: Shutterstock*

For reference, non-invasive breast cancer is an early form of breast cancer where the tumor is confined to the milk ducts. It’s also known as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or stage 0 cancer. It is detectable only by mammography, as it usually causes no physical symptoms. Meanwhile, lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) occurs when there are abnormal cells in the breast’s lobules. It has no symptoms and cannot be seen in a mammogram. Rather, it’s typically found during a breast biopsy for an unrelated reason. LCIS is not considered cancer, but it does indicate a much higher risk of breast cancer, warns Mayo Clinic.

Breast cancer symptoms in men

Breast cancer in men concept : Portrait Asian man and pink ribbon the symbol of breast cancer campaign. Studio shot isolated on grey background — *In rare instances, men can develop breast cancer, especially those who have immediate relatives with the condition.* *Image credit: Shutterstock*

By definition, breast cancer is found in breast tissue, which means anyone can get it regardless of gender. Men make up about one in every 100 breast cancer cases in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. Cleveland Clinic explains that risk factors include family history of breast cancer, having genes associated with breast cancer, high estrogen levels, radiation therapy on the chest, testicular injuries or health conditions, and being over 60 years old. In these instances, the signs include:

Nipple discharge or bleeding
Lumps or thickening in the breast
Redness, flaking, swelling, or dimpling on the breast or nipple
Pain or tenderness in the breast or armpit
Retracted nipple

When to see a doctor

Young woman is having mammography examination at the hospital or private clinic with a professional female doctor. — *Medical experts recommend women ages 40 to 74 get screened for breast cancer every two years.*
*Image credit: Shutterstock*

It’s easy to read about cancer and become paranoid about having it. So remember that these symptoms could come from other conditions. Additionally, it’s normal for breasts to change, especially alongside weight fluctuations, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and other hormonal shifts. If you are concerned, speak to your healthcare practitioner about further evaluation. There’s an ongoing debate on how often people should get screened for breast cancer. The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women aged 40 to 74 years with an average risk for breast cancer should get screened every 2 years. The American Cancer Society recommends that women at high risk of breast cancer get tested yearly after age 30.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.