The Symptoms of Breast Cancer | The Prescription Shop

Did you know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month? The Prescription Shop wants to help raise awareness about the importance of breast cancer screening. Here’s what everyone needs to know about recognizing breast cancer early.

The Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Early on, breast cancer often carries no symptoms. When a tumor develops, some signs and symptoms may be visible:

The very first symptom of breast cancer is often a lump in your breast or underarm that persists outside of your menstrual cycle. Breast cancer lumps typically present themselves without pain. Some patients report feeling a prickly sensation. However, these lumps are often visible on a mammogram even before you can see or feel the lump for yourself. That’s why mammograms are so vital.
Swelling in the armpit.
Pain or tenderness in the breast. It’s true that cancerous lumps are typically painless, however, pain or tenderness may be a sign of breast cancer.
A breast which appears to have flattened or become indented may suggest an unseen tumor.
Any noticeable change in the size, contour, texture, or temperature of a breast may indicate cancer.
Skin that is reddish and pitted, and resembles the skin of an orange can be a sign of advanced breast cancer.
Changes in a nipple, including retraction, dimpling, itching, ulceration, or a burning sensation can be a sign of breast cancer. A scaly nipple rash may mean Paget’s disease, which may also be associated with underlying breast cancer.

Unusual discharge from the nipple is usually not related to cancer, but may sometimes be a cancer symptom.

A marble-like area under the skin of a breast.

Any area that is distinctly different from any other area on either breast.

When Should You Call Your Doctor?
If you experience any of the above symptoms, you should call your doctor about getting checked for breast cancer. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

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