Alexandria Wyckoff
One of the most common symptoms of breast cancer is lumps in the breast tissue. However, did you know this is just one of many symptoms you should keep an eye out for? Early signs of breast cancer can have many forms, including itchiness, swelling, or even changes in your nipples. Paying attention to any strange signs or changes to your breasts is crucial to staying on top of breast cancer diagnoses, including self-reported diagnoses. Below are some early signs of breast cancer to keep an eye out for.
6. Sore Armpits
Starting our list of early signs of breast cancer is sore armpits. While you may think all of your breast tissue is the circular part in your bra, it actually goes all the way up into your armpits. Breast cancer can form in the breast tissue area and cause the lymph nodes in your armpit to swell. So, if your armpits are painful or swollen and you haven’t recently done a lot of chest workouts, it may be worth checking out.
5. Boobs Look Veiny
Fifth on our list of early signs of breast cancer is veiny boobs. While the ability to see your veins on the surface of your breasts depends on skin color, amount of subcutaneous fat, pregnancy, and genetics, noting changes in these veins is important. If you can suddenly see veins or if they become much bigger, darker, or more prominent, it may be a sign of breast cancer.
4. Strange Tickling Sensation
Next on our list of early signs of breast cancer is feeling a strange tickling sensation. How your breasts feel on the inside is just as important as how they feel on the outside. Some women feel a tickling sensation, buzzing, prickliness, or that their breast milk is letting down even though they are not breastfeeding. All of these, if abnormal or recurring, could be symptoms of breast cancer.
3. Nipple Discharge
Rounding out the top three early signs of breast cancer is nipple discharge. While discharge during pregnancy and a year after weaning your baby is normal, there is some nipple discharge that can be concerning. Random discharge, especially if it’s red, green, or has an odor, might be indicative of a problem such as breast or pituitary gland cancer.
2. Painful Swelling
Second on our list of early signs of breast cancer is painful swelling. While swollen or painful breasts can be due to hormonal changes, they can also be linked to breast cancer. While a majority of breast pain is not connected to cancer, if you do have any pain or swelling not linked to your menstrual cycle or breastfeeding, and it appears suddenly and doesn’t go away, schedule an appointment with your doctor.
1. Scaly/Inflamed Skin
Last but not least on our list of early signs of breast cancer is scaly or inflamed skin. Along with these two symptoms, it’s important to be aware of dimply or patchy breast skin, too. Any changes to the normal appearance could mean something is going on under the surface. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and notify your doctor of any changes or go in for a check-up.