Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

There are several signs and symptoms that can indicate breast cancer. If you experience any of these, you should see your doctor immediately for an evaluation:

  • Lump
  • Swelling
  • Skin irritation, dimpling, or thickening
  • Nipple pain or sudden inversion of the nipple
  • Redness, scaling, or inflammation of the breast or nipple
  • Abnormal discharge

These signs and symptoms are also associated with noncancerous breast conditions, so if you experience them, it is important not to panic but to seek medical help.

Breast cancer can also occur without producing any visible or noticeable symptoms, so it is important to perform monthly breast self-exams, have regular clinical check-ups, and follow screening guidelines for mammograms.

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this page last updated: December 13, 2006