Breast cancer symptoms can vary considerably from one person to another, and many breast cancers exhibit no apparent symptoms at all. People tend to associate breast cancer with common symptoms such as nipple discharge and lumps in the breast. However, there are many signs of breast cancer that are often subtle and unexpected. The best way to catch any sudden changes is by performing a monthly breast self-exam. If you notice any changes in your breasts, visit your doctor as soon as possible. Here are five unexpected signs of breast cancer to look out for.
Constantly Feeling Itchy
Feeling itchy is one of those symptoms that people tend to ignore since it could result from many different minor causes. However, it can sometimes be a sign of underlying health issues, such as inflammatory breast cancer. This type of cancer is rare and aggressive, affecting the breast’s lymph vessels and skin. The symptoms of this type of breast cancer include irritation, itchiness, and redness that persists even after using creams and treatments. The skin can also thicken, or a rash that resembles eczema can develop. Even though itching on its own isn’t usually one of the signs of breast cancer, when it’s persistent and accompanied by other changes, it really shouldn’t be ignored.
Chest or Breast Pain
Breast cancer is typically described as being painless. However, there are some people who do experience some pain in the chest or breast area. Some people describe it as a persistent burning, sharp, or aching pain. It can vary from a pain that is only present in one spot to a pain that radiates throughout the entire chest. This type of pain is usually associated with certain benign conditions or hormonal changes. However, if you experience these signs of breast cancer, you should have it looked at by your doctor. They will be able to determine whether it is caused by something benign or whether it’s something to be concerned about.
Swelling in the Collarbone Area or Arm
One of the unexpected signs of breast cancer to look out for is a swelling in the collarbone area or arms. This occurs when the cancer has begun to spread to the lymph nodes, resulting in a backup of lymphatic fluids. You may notice a significant difference in size from one arm to another and experience a feeling of tightness or puffiness. Even if you aren’t experiencing any pain or if you observe any unexplained or persistent swelling, have it seen as soon as possible. Ignoring this sign means both your diagnosis and treatment are delayed, making the disease harder to manage.
An Inverted Nipple
If your nipple suddenly inverts or seems to have retracted, it is potentially a sign of breast cancer. Unless you are one of the few people who have naturally inverted nipples at birth, any change to the nipples should be cause for concern. This can happen when a tumor pulls on the tissue just behind the nipple, changing its position or causing it to flatten out. You may also notice other changes, such as scaling, redness, or discharge. Even if there is no pain associated with the inversion of the mipple, you should still see your health practitioner as soon as possible. Addressing changes such as this early can make a significant difference in diagnosis and treatment outcomes. So don’t just ignore it, even if it seems minor at the moment.
Unexplainable Fatigue
In this day and age, it’s not unusual to feel drained after a long and stressful day. However, if you are constantly feeling fatigued, even after getting a full night’s rest, it could be a symptom of breast cancer. Unlike normal tiredness, this type of fatigue is typically overwhelming and persistent. It could be caused by your body’s response to inflammation or the spread of cancer. In later stages, it could be the result of the cancer affecting the production of red blood cells. If you experience constant fatigue along with any of the other symptoms, rather have it seen to by your health practitioner.
The Bottom Line
Breast cancer does not usually present with the most visible signs. Subtle and unexpected symptoms, such as persistent itching, breast pain, and an inverted nipple, could all indicate something more serious. These signs are often overlooked or misdiagnosed as less serious illnesses, causing diagnostic and treatment delays. That’s why it’s vital that you remain aware and listen to your body. Regular self-exams and paying particular attention to any unusual changes are essential for detecting early signs of cancer. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait to see your doctor. When it comes to breast health, early intervention can make all the difference.