What are the symptoms of early-stage breast cancer?

Early-stage breast cancer may not have obvious symptoms, but the following are common early signs:

1. Breast lump: This is the most common early symptom. The lump is usually painless, firm in texture, with irregular borders, and can be detected during self-examination or physical examination by a physician.

2. Nipple discharge: Some women may experience nipple discharge, particularly bloody or serosanguinous discharge, which should raise significant concern.

3. Nipple changes: The nipple or areola area may experience itching, burning sensation, nipple retraction, or skin indentation.

4. Skin changes: These include skin indentation resembling a dimple, "peau d'orange" (skin resembling the texture of an orange peel), or skin redness, swelling, or discoloration.

5. Swollen axillary lymph nodes: Although not commonly seen in early stages, painless enlargement of lymph nodes in the armpit should also raise concern.

The presence of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate breast cancer, as many benign conditions can cause similar symptoms. However, if any of these symptoms are detected, prompt medical consultation is recommended for professional evaluation and diagnosis using medical imaging techniques such as breast ultrasound, mammography, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).