Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in American women, other than skin cancers. Breast cancer is the second-most deadly cancer for women, behind only lung cancer. Early detection of breast cancer is crucial to increasing the chances of a successful treatment and outcome. To detect breast cancer early, it’s important to have an awareness of the commonly experienced symptoms. While most women may be aware of the common symptoms of breast cancer, below are some of the most often overlooked signs. See a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms listed below to properly screen for breast cancer.
1. Lumps in your breast
Although lumps in your breast are a common sign of breast cancer, they are still a widely overlooked symptom. It is essential to include a self-breast examination as a regular part of your health and wellness routine.
At BlackDoctor.org, we recommend a self-breast examination once a month to feel any irregularities in the breast tissue.
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One way to perform a self-breast examination is to wait until you get out of the shower and gently massage the tissue in your breasts, being mindful of feeling for lumps, bumps, or anything that may feel out of the ordinary. A regular self-breast examination can help you feel when a change occurs in the breast tissue.
Alert your doctor if any changes need to be looked into. A lump in the breast is one of the earliest and most common signs of breast cancer-detecting and can help stop breast cancer in its early stages.
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2. Discharge from the Nipple
Another commonly overlooked breast cancer symptom is discharging from the nipple.
If you are experiencing nipple discharge and you’re not breastfeeding, this is abnormal, and you should see a doctor.
The discharge associated with breast cancer may be bloody. Some women report pain and discomfort in the nipple area.
Nipple discharge may be normal in early pregnancy and while breastfeeding, but make sure to ask your doctor whether the discharge is healthy.
3. Change in Nipple Color
The areola may change color for several reasons. Common reasons for color change include aging and/or pregnancy; however, one of the more overlooked reasons for changes in nipple color is associated with breast cancer.
Change in nipple color is especially abnormal if it occurs in only one nipple and not evenly on both breasts. It’s also unusual for nipple color to change outside of pregnancy.
If you experience one nipple or areola appearing different in color from the other, consult a doctor for further consultation.
4. Redness/Change in Breast Texture
Do your breasts look slightly red or have an uneven texture? This may be a sign of breast cancer.
The redness may look like a rash and may also accompany an orange peel-like texture on the breast.
If you experience a sudden change in texture or redness in your breast, immediately bring it to your doctor’s attention. Remember, early detection is key in discovering and recovering from breast cancer. Bring any concerns to a healthcare professional immediately.
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5. Dimpling and Scaling
If you are experiencing new dimpling or scaling on your breast or nipple, this may be another commonly overlooked sign of breast cancer.
Dimpling and scaling are both symptoms that point to an irregularity in the breast.
In Conclusion…
If you are experiencing symptoms of breast cancer, address your concerns with a professional to protect yourself from breast cancer as soon as possible. For your overall health, be sure to schedule an appointment for a mammogram with a breast specialist at least once per year.
