What Are the 15 Early Signs of Breast Cancer
Nov 12, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Dapeng
Introduction
There is no such thing as "15 signs of early breast cancer." Early signs of breast cancer may include breast lumps, nipple discharge, breast pain, abnormal changes in breast skin, nipple retraction, and so on. Patients often incidentally discover a lump in the breast; these lumps are usually hard, have irregular edges, and a less smooth surface, and are mostly painless. However, a minority of patients may experience mild pain or stabbing discomfort.
Generally speaking, there is no established concept of "15 early signs of breast cancer." Early signs of breast cancer may include breast lumps, nipple discharge, breast pain, skin abnormalities on the breast, nipple retraction, and others. If any discomfort occurs, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Breast lump
This is a relatively common early symptom of breast cancer. Patients often discover a lump in the breast incidentally. The lump is usually hard, has irregular edges, an uneven surface, and is mostly painless. However, a small number of patients may experience dull or sharp pain.
2. Nipple discharge
If fluid such as milk, blood, serum, or pus continues to discharge from the nipple outside of pregnancy or more than six months after stopping breastfeeding, this could be an early sign of breast cancer. Particular caution is warranted if the discharge is accompanied by a breast lump or swollen lymph nodes in the armpit.
3. Breast pain
Some patients with early-stage breast cancer may experience dull, aching, throbbing, or stabbing pain in the breast. This pain is typically irregular and does not fluctuate with the menstrual cycle. Although breast pain is not a specific symptom of breast cancer, persistent pain should prompt timely medical evaluation.
4. Skin changes on the breast
When a breast cancer tumor invades surrounding tissues, the breast skin may become indented, creating a "dimple sign" (also known as "peau d'orange"). Additionally, due to cancer cells blocking lymphatic vessels and causing local edema, the skin may take on an orange-peel-like appearance. Moreover, the skin around the nipple and areola may develop erosions or ulcers.
5. Nipple retraction
As a breast cancer tumor grows, it may invade the base of the breast and pull on the nipple, causing it to retract inward—a condition clinically referred to as nipple inversion. If obvious changes in the nipple's appearance are observed, such as retraction, inversion, or deformation, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
If any of the above symptoms or other breast abnormalities occur, individuals should promptly visit a hospital for examination to enable early detection and treatment of breast cancer.
