Breast cancer is not an uncommon health condition. Many women are fighting this type of cancer, and the good news is you can also win the battle with the right treatment and early diagnosis.
The question is – What are the signs of having breast cancer?
Some women feel lumps in their breasts, and others go undetected. So, it is important for you to know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. You can contact a breast cancer specialist if you notice any of the signs we will mention in this post.
What is Breast Cancer?
A woman’s breast consists of three parts: ducts, lobules, and connective tissue. The lobules are responsible for producing milk. The ducts carry milk to the woman’s nipple. The connective tissue surrounds the breast and holds all of it together.
Breast cancer is when the cells in a woman’s breast grow too fast. It almost goes out of control. But there are different types of breast cancer. Some breast cancers start with your lobules or ducts, and others can spread out.
Some women keep a watch on their breasts. If they feel any lump in the breast, it can be alarming that this type of cancer could spread and be lethal.
What are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is associated with getting a lump in the breast. The symptoms could differ depending on the type of breast cancer a woman has. Many patients get lumps, but some women may not feel it.
There are a few warning signs to look out for. But it may start with a breast lump near the armpit or along the chest. You can feel different parts of the breast to determine whether there are any lumps.
Nipple bleeding or discharge are also some of the symptoms that you may notice. There may be some swelling or redness in the breast region. Try to take a good look at your breasts in the mirror. If your nipples look strange, consider checking with a breast specialist.
Early detection of this type of cancer could open some promising treatment options. If you feel any uncanny changes in the breasts, contact a breast specialist immediately. They will review the symptoms and find out the best treatment for you.
Signs You May Have Breast Cancer
The symptoms or signs could be different from one to another. We would like to highlight the breast cancer signs.
- Changes in the skin, including redness, swelling, and difference in the appearance of your breast.
- A change in the size or shape of the breast
- Nipple discharge (not milk)
- Pain in the breast
- Lumps in the breast (most probably on or inside the breast)
- Increase in the size of your breast
If you have invasive breast cancer, you will see the following signs:
- Itchy breasts
- Irritated breasts
- Breast colour change
- Flaking of breast skin
- Breast lump
- Breasts may feel tender or hard
- Redness
But, in case you see any colour change, it could also be eczema or some other health condition. Check with your doctor and let them know the symptoms. Evaluation of breasts is important. The doctor may suggest mammograms to the patient. Now, what is a mammogram? Head to the next section to find out.
What is a Mammogram?
Mammograms are low-dose X-rays of a woman’s breast. These help in detecting the tumour before it gets too late. If you notice any small changes in your breasts, the doctor will do an evaluation and then suggest a mammogram.
A tumour, like a little pencil or a big lime, could be small. It is important to get an X-ray to see if it is dangerous. Doctors may suggest mammograms regularly to keep a check on the health of your breasts. But don’t miss out on the signs of breast cancer. It could be some other health condition but keep a close watch.
Can Breast Cancer Be Treated?
Yes.
Breast cancer can be treated in many ways. It also depends on your cancer and how much it has spread. People with breast cancer could have multiple treatment options.
The doctor may suggest surgery where they cut out the cancer. It may seem a little daunting to women initially, but it adds a few more years to your life. Chemotherapy is another option where special medications are given to kill the cancer cells. These could also shrink the cancer cells. Chemo is painful and expensive, but your doctor can help you understand the process and its benefits.
Another option you have is hormonal therapy, where cancer cells are blocked. Biological therapy helps fight cancer cells and control all the side effects of breast cancer.
Summing Up
If you have noticed any uncanny signs, it is time to see a doctor immediately. Of course, you need a breast surgeon who can handle complicated cases.
Don’t worry! You have got treatment options, so don’t feel overwhelmed or scared.