Breast Cancer Signs: Observable Evidence to Help in Pinpointing Breast Cancer

Aug 21
17:23

2008

Trevor Price

Trevor Price

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Understanding and being able to detect breast cancer signs are crucial for early detection of the disease and higher success rates.

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One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime and early detection is critical for survival - which is why it's critical that all women be aware of possible breast cancer signs and symptoms.

Read on to learn more about associated symptoms and breast cancer signs,Breast Cancer Signs: Observable Evidence to Help in Pinpointing Breast Cancer Articles along with information on how to watch out for them.

Lump in the Breast

Most instances of breast cancer are diagnosed after a woman discovers a lump in her breast. This is the most common method of detecting breast cancer and the clearest sign or symptom of the disease.

Most women find lumps during a routine Breast Self Exam (BSE). To learn how to give yourself a breast examination, the Komen website (an organization dedicated to supporting women with breast cancer) offers instructions online, komen.org.

Change in Breast Size, Shape or Texture

A drastic change in a breast's skin texture, shape or overall size can be a clear indicator of breast cancer. Many breast cancer victims also see a dimpling or wrinkling of the skin.

Skin Irritation or Swelling

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare form of breast cancer, but it does occur in about 1% of women diagnosed with the disease. The symptoms typically present themselves through itchiness, swelling, soreness, redness and a heat that resonates throughout the breast.

Paget's Disease of the Breast

One complex symptom of breast cancer is Paget's disease - this is a general inflammation of the breast skin. Essentially, the skin around the nipple becomes dry, flaky, red and itchy - resembling eczema in many cases.

Loss of Appetite

Like many cancers, breast cancer patients often experience a decrease in their appetite alongside subsequent weight loss. This symptom doesn't affect all patients, but is common.

Depression and Anxiety

Unfortunately, mental and emotional symptoms aren't as documented or researched as physical indicators. However, many women who are diagnosed with breast cancer report symptoms of depression and anxiety even before their diagnosis.

Genealogy

If any of your immediate family members or several members of your extended family have been diagnosed with breast cancer, then you need to let your doctor know. You should also commit to monthly self breast exams and annual mammograms.

Diagnosing Symptoms

If you suspect that you may have breast cancer, it's important to make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the higher a patient's survival and success rate. 

To keep an eye on potential lumps or other signs of breast cancer, the American Cancer Society suggests women schedule a yearly mammogram and conduct a monthly breast exam.