Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Because doctor's are now being able to diagnose breast cancer in its early stages today are large number of women are now surviving what use to be a deadly disease a few years back.  But it is important that a woman knows exactly what the symptoms of breast cancer are in order that they can easily recognize that they may have this condition and therefore get it treated much earlier.

The first symptom that many women associate with breast cancer is that they found a lump in this part of their body which has not been there previously.  What is important to note however is that in nearly all cases (9 out of 10) where a lump has been found turn out to be benign rather than cancerous.

The most common reason for these lumps to form is that sacs of fluid (cysts) have grown in the breast or that some of the glandular tissue has become fibrous.  This particular condition is commonly referred to by medical professionals as Fibroadenoma.  Although any woman can suffer from these conditions they are far more likely to occur in women over the age of 35.

It is important that any woman understands everything there is to know about their breasts in order that they can seek medical advice as soon as they notice any changes in them.  The kinds of changes you should be seeking advice from your doctor on are shown below.

1.  If on carry out an self-examination of your breasts you notice that a lump has appeared or that part of your breast seems to becoming thicker then medical advice should be sought.  Also if you notice the skin on your breasts has taken on the appearance of orange peel, commonly referred to dimpling then arrange to see your doctor as soon as you can.

2.  When you carry out an examination of your breast look closely at your nipples. Are they turning in or sinking back into the breast or have they begun to change shape as these can all be the first signs that you may be suffering from breast cancer.  Plus if at any time you suddenly begin to notice that your nipples are producing a discharge (especially if it is blood colored) then medical assistance should be sought.

3.  Whilst the above two are the more common symptoms of a woman possibly having breast cancer another is that they notice a rash appearing on the nipple or the area surrounding it.

4.  The final symptom and which is probably the most common of all of the symptoms is that a woman finds a lump either in her breast or in her armpit as she carries out an examination on herself.  If you do find such a lump it is important that you seek medical advice and assistance as soon as you can.

But even though the above are all symptoms of breast cancer not always is this what is causing the condition, in fact there may be some other underlying medical condition for what is being caused.  However, if at any time you are concerned about what you have found after carrying out a breast examination then you should make an appointment to see your doctor immediately.

The earlier you are able to identify the symptoms of breast cancer will help to increase your chances of the right diagnosis being provided.  Which will then result in the right kind of treatment being provided and which will increase your chances of surviving what use to be a very deadly disease among women of all ages.