Rak piersi
Objawy

Rak piersi (carcinoma mammae) jest najczęstszym nowotworem złośliwym u kobiet, a jego wczesne wykrycie znacząco wpływa na rokowanie i skuteczność leczenia. W początkowych stadiach choroba może przebiegać bezobjawowo, co podkreśla rolę regularnych badań przesiewowych, zwłaszcza mammografii, która umożliwia wykrycie zmian nawet przed pojawieniem się wyczuwalnego guzka. Charakterystyczne objawy obejmują wyczuwalny, twardy i nieregularny guzek w piersi lub pod pachą, zmiany w kształcie i wielkości piersi, wciągnięcie brodawki, krwistą wydzielinę z brodawki, zmiany skórne typu „skórki pomarańczy”, zaczerwienienie, łuszczenie się skóry oraz ból piersi niezwiązany z cyklem miesiączkowym. Różne typy raka piersi, takie jak carcinoma ductale invasivum, carcinoma lobulare invasivum czy carcinoma inflammatorium mammae, mogą manifestować się odmiennymi symptomami, a stadium zaawansowania (0-4) determinuje zakres objawów miejscowych i ogólnych, w tym przerzutów do kości, płuc, wątroby, mózgu i skóry.

Objawy raka piersi u kobiet

Rak piersi (łac. carcinoma mammae) to najczęstszy nowotwór złośliwy występujący u kobiet. Jego wczesne wykrycie ma kluczowe znaczenie dla skuteczności leczenia i rokowania. Należy podkreślić, że we wczesnym stadium rak piersi może nie dawać żadnych objawów, dlatego tak ważne są regularne badania przesiewowe. Niemniej jednak, istnieje szereg charakterystycznych objawów, na które kobiety powinny zwracać uwagę.12

Najczęstsze objawy raka piersi

Najczęstszym i najbardziej charakterystycznym objawem raka piersi jest wyczuwalny guzek lub zgrubienie w piersi lub pod pachą. Guzy nowotworowe są zazwyczaj twarde, nieregularne w kształcie i bezbolesne, choć niektóre mogą być miękkie, okrągłe i tkliwe przy dotyku.12

Do innych częstych objawów raka piersi należą:

  • Zmiana wielkości lub kształtu piersi12
  • Wciągnięcie lub zmiana kierunku brodawki sutkowej12
  • Wydzielina z brodawki sutkowej (zwłaszcza krwista) niezwiązana z karmieniem piersią12
  • Zmiany skórne na piersi – wciągnięcia, marszczenia, pomarszczenia (objaw „skórki pomarańczy”)12
  • Zaczerwienienie, łuszczenie się lub zgrubienie skóry piersi lub brodawki12
  • Ból w obrębie piersi, który nie ustępuje po miesiączce12

Warto zaznaczyć, że ból piersi rzadko jest objawem raka piersi, częściej związany jest z cyklem miesiączkowym lub łagodnymi zmianami w piersi.12

Objawy różnych typów raka piersi

Różne typy raka piersi mogą dawać nieco odmienne objawy.1

Rak przewodowy inwazyjny (łac. carcinoma ductale invasivum) we wczesnych stadiach może nie dawać objawów. U niektórych pacjentek pierwszym objawem jest nowy guzek lub masa w piersi. Inne objawy mogą obejmować: obrzęk całości lub części piersi, ból w piersi lub brodawce sutkowej, wciągnięcie brodawki, wydzielinę z brodawki, zaczerwienienie, łuszczenie się lub zgrubienie skóry piersi lub brodawki.1

Rak zrazikowy inwazyjny (łac. carcinoma lobulare invasivum) we wczesnych stadiach może nie powodować objawów lub manifestować się jako zgrubienie lub stwardnienie tkanki piersi raczej niż wyraźny guzek, obszar pełności lub obrzęku w piersi, zmiana tekstury skóry piersi, wciągnięcie brodawki.1

Zapalny rak piersi (łac. carcinoma inflammatorium mammae) daje objawy przypominające infekcję, w tym: zaczerwienienie, obrzęk i ocieplenie piersi, dimpling skóry (objaw „skórki pomarańczy”), wciągnięte brodawki, wydzielinę z brodawki. Ten typ raka charakteryzuje się szybkim rozwojem i może być trudny do wykrycia, gdyż często nie tworzy wyczuwalnego guza.12

Rak piersi nieinwazyjny (przedinwazyjny, in situ)

Rak piersi nieinwazyjny (przedinwazyjny, in situ) to wczesne stadium raka piersi, w którym komórki nowotworowe ograniczone są do przewodów lub zrazików mlecznych i nie naciekają otaczających tkanek. Ze względu na bardzo małe rozmiary guza, ten typ raka często nie daje zauważalnych objawów fizycznych i jest wykrywany głównie podczas badań mammograficznych.12

Objawy raka piersi w zależności od stadium zaawansowania

Objawy raka piersi mogą różnić się w zależności od stadium zaawansowania choroby:

Stadium 0 (rak in situ) – zazwyczaj nie daje objawów, może być niewyczuwalny. Potencjalnym objawem jest niewielka wydzielina z brodawki sutkowej.1

Stadium 1 – głównym objawem może być nowy guzek lub masa w piersi, który rozpoczął wzrost w otaczających tkankach.1

Stadium 2 – mogą wystąpić objawy takie jak ból piersi lub brodawki, sucha lub łuszcząca się skóra brodawki lub piersi, wydzielina z brodawki niezwiązana z karmieniem piersią.1

Stadium 3 – objawy mogą obejmować zaczerwienienie skóry piersi, wgłębienia lub marszczenia skóry, niewyjaśnioną wysypkę na piersi, wydzielinę z brodawki, guzek w pobliżu piersi lub pachy, zmianę kształtu lub wyglądu piersi.12

Stadium 4 (rak przerzutowy) – oprócz objawów miejscowych, mogą wystąpić objawy ogólne takie jak ból, zmęczenie i osłabienie, utrata apetytu, zmiany wagi, nudności i wymioty, zaparcia, duszność, a także ból kości, który staje się stały.12

Przerzuty raka piersi – objawy

Rak piersi może dawać przerzuty do różnych narządów, powodując specyficzne objawy w zależności od miejsca występowania wtórnych zmian nowotworowych.12

Ogólne objawy raka przerzutowego

Ogólne objawy, które mogą świadczyć o rozsianym raku piersi, obejmują:1

  • Uczucie ciągłego zmęczenia
  • Przewlekłe nudności
  • Niewyjaśniona utrata wagi i brak apetytu

Przerzuty do kości

Główne objawy przerzutów raka piersi do kości to:12

  • Ból kości, który nie ustępuje po lekach przeciwbólowych i może nasilać się w pozycji leżącej lub w nocy
  • Złamania kości
  • Niewyjaśniony ból pleców
  • Trudności z chodzeniem
  • Drętwienie i utrata kontroli nad pęcherzem lub jelitami

Przerzuty do płuc

Objawy przerzutów raka piersi do płuc obejmują:12

  • Uczucie braku tchu zarówno podczas aktywności, jak i w spoczynku
  • Kaszel, który nie ustępuje
  • Ból lub ucisk w klatce piersiowej, który nie ustępuje

Przerzuty do wątroby

Objawy przerzutów raka piersi do wątroby to:1

  • Ból brzucha, który może być odczuwalny także w prawym barku
  • Dyskomfort lub ból w prawej części brzucha pod żebrami
  • Nudności
  • Utrata apetytu i utrata wagi
  • Czkawka
  • Gromadzenie się płynu w brzuchu powodujące obrzęk (wodobrzusze)
  • Ogólne złe samopoczucie
  • Uczucie ciągłego zmęczenia
  • Świąd i zażółcenie skóry (żółtaczka)

Przerzuty do mózgu

Objawy przerzutów raka piersi do mózgu obejmują:12

  • Ból głowy
  • Nudności i wymioty, szczególnie po przebudzeniu rano
  • Osłabienie lub drętwienie jednej strony ciała
  • Zawroty głowy, niestabilność lub utrata równowagi i koordynacji
  • Napady drgawkowe
  • Trudności z mową
  • Problemy ze wzrokiem
  • Zmiany zachowania, nastroju lub osobowości
  • Dezorientacja
  • Problemy z pamięcią

Przerzuty do skóry

Objawy przerzutów raka piersi do skóry to:1

  • Zmiana koloru skóry
  • Utrzymująca się wysypka
  • Twardy, bezbolesny mały guzek (guzek) lub wiele guzków różnej wielkości
  • Obrzęk limfatyczny (obrzęk ramienia, dłoni lub okolicy piersi)
  • Ból
  • Krwawienie
  • Infekcja
  • Nieprzyjemny zapach

Przerzuty do węzłów chłonnych

Objawy świadczące o rozprzestrzenieniu się raka piersi do węzłów chłonnych:1

  • Guzek lub obrzęk pod pachą, w okolicy mostka lub obojczyka
  • Obrzęk ramienia lub dłoni
  • Ból
  • Suchy kaszel

Nietypowe objawy raka piersi

Oprócz typowych objawów, rak piersi może manifestować się również w mniej oczywisty sposób. Ważne jest, aby być świadomym tych nietypowych objawów, które mogą być łatwo przeoczone lub mylnie zinterpretowane.12

Zmiany skórne i zapalne

Nietypowe objawy związane ze skórą piersi mogą obejmować:123

  • Łuszcząca się, sucha skóra wokół brodawki sutkowej przypominająca wysypkę, która może stać się czerwona i podrażniona. Brodawka może wyglądać jak pokryta strupem. Może to być objaw choroby Pageta, podtypu raka piersi dotyczącego głównie brodawki sutkowej.
  • Zaczerwieniona, obrzęknięta pierś, ciepła w dotyku – objawy te mogą przypominać zapalenie piersi, ale w niektórych przypadkach mogą świadczyć o zapalnym raku piersi.
  • Tekstura skóry przypominająca „skórkę pomarańczy” (dimpling) – charakterystyczna dla zapalnego raka piersi.

Zmiany brodawki sutkowej

Nietypowe zmiany brodawki sutkowej, które mogą wskazywać na raka piersi:12

  • Wciąganie się brodawki sutkowej (inwersja) – gdy brodawka zaczyna wciągać się do wewnątrz. Może się to zdarzyć, gdy guz rozrasta się wewnątrz piersi i czasami pociąga część tkanki piersi w kierunku guza, powodując wciągnięcie brodawki.
  • Wydzielina z brodawki inna niż mleko – szczególnie niepokojąca jest wydzielina przezroczysta lub krwista z brodawki u kobiet, które nie są w ciąży ani nie karmią piersią.

Objawy związane z układem limfatycznym

Obrzęk i tkliwość w okolicy pachy lub samej piersi, tworzące zauważalną różnicę w rozmiarze, mogą wystąpić, jeśli guz rozszerza się do pachy podczas szybkiego wzrostu. Częściej występują powiększone węzły chłonne w tej okolicy, które powiększają się z powodu zmian zapalnych związanych z infekcją, alergiami i niedawnymi szczepieniami w tym ramieniu.1

Progresja raka piersi

Rak piersi to choroba, która rozwija się, gdy komórki w piersi zaczynają mutować i stają się komórkami nowotworowymi, które mnożą się i tworzą guzy. Około 80% przypadków raka piersi to nowotwory inwazyjne, co oznacza, że guz może rozprzestrzeniać się z piersi do innych obszarów ciała.1

Stadia raka piersi

Rak piersi ma pięć głównych stadiów, od 0 do 4, które określają zaawansowanie choroby:123

  • Stadium 0: Rak nieinwazyjny (in situ), komórki nowotworowe ograniczone są do przewodów lub zrazików i nie wykazują cech naciekania otaczających tkanek.
  • Stadium 1: Komórki nowotworowe zaczynają rozprzestrzeniać się do otaczających tkanek piersi, ale guz pozostaje bardzo mały (do 2 cm).
  • Stadium 2: Rak zaczyna rosnąć, ale pozostaje tylko w piersi lub pobliskich węzłach chłonnych. Wielkość guza wynosi od 2 do 5 cm.
  • Stadium 3: Rak zaczyna naciekać węzły chłonne, mięśnie i inne tkanki ciała w pobliżu piersi, ale nie dotarł do narządów dalszych. Guz jest większy niż 5 cm.
  • Stadium 4: Rak jest bardzo zaawansowany i rozprzestrzenił się do kilku narządów lub innych części ciała (przerzuty odległe).

Rozprzestrzenianie się raka piersi

Niekontrolowane komórki nowotworowe często naciekają inne zdrowe tkanki piersi i mogą przedostawać się do węzłów chłonnych pod pachami. Gdy rak dostanie się do węzłów chłonnych, ma dostęp do drogi, aby przemieścić się do innych części ciała.1

Pierwszym miejscem, do którego zwykle rozprzestrzenia się rak piersi, są węzły chłonne pod pachą (pacha). Jeśli to nastąpi, może rozwinąć się obrzęk lub guzek w pachwinie.1

Jeśli rak rozprzestrzeni się do innych części ciała, mówimy o raku przerzutowym, zaawansowanym lub wtórnym. Najczęstszymi miejscami przerzutów inwazyjnego raka przewodowego piersi są kości, płuca, wątroba i mózg.12

Rak piersi przerzutowy

Rak piersi przerzutowy (stadium 4) to rak piersi, który rozprzestrzenił się z pierwotnej lokalizacji w piersi do innych obszarów ciała. Obecnie nie ma dostępnego leku na przerzutowy rak piersi, ale coraz więcej kobiet żyje dłużej z tą chorobą, lecząc ją jako chorobę przewlekłą z koncentracją na jakości życia jako głównym celu.1

Objawy raka piersi z przerzutami zależą od części ciała, do której rak się rozprzestrzenił, oraz od jego stadium. Czasami przerzutowa choroba może nie powodować żadnych objawów.1

Wskaźniki przeżycia w raku piersi

Wskaźniki przeżycia w raku piersi różnią się w zależności od kilku czynników, takich jak to, czy rak jest inwazyjny czy nieinwazyjny, typu raka i stadium zaawansowania.12

Według danych Narodowego Instytutu Raka (USA), ogólnie 91% osób z rakiem piersi żyło pięć lat po rozpoznaniu.1

Względny pięcioletni wskaźnik przeżycia dla kobiet z inwazyjnym rakiem piersi, który nie dał przerzutów, wynosi 91%. Oznacza to, że większość osób zdiagnozowanych na tym etapie żyje pięć lat po rozpoznaniu.1

Jeśli rak rozprzestrzeni się poza pierś do węzłów chłonnych lub innych narządów, wskaźniki przeżycia maleją. Pięcioletni wskaźnik przeżycia dla raka piersi, który rozprzestrzenił się do węzłów chłonnych, wynosi 86%.1

Jeśli rak rozprzestrzeni się do odległej części ciała, takiej jak kości, wątroba, płuca lub mózg, pięcioletni wskaźnik przeżycia wynosi 31%.1

Wczesne wykrywanie i diagnostyka raka piersi

Wczesne wykrycie raka piersi ma kluczowe znaczenie dla pomyślnego leczenia. W wielu przypadkach rak piersi we wczesnych stadiach nie powoduje żadnych objawów, dlatego regularne badania przesiewowe są tak ważne.12

Znaczenie wczesnego wykrywania

Wczesne wykrycie raka piersi jest kluczowe, jeśli chodzi o opcje leczenia tego nowotworu. Jeśli masz obawy związane z nowymi zmianami w piersiach, poproś lekarza o zbadanie twoich objawów i ustalenie, czy istnieje potrzeba dalszej oceny.1

Wykrycie raka piersi we wczesnym stadium może oznaczać, że można go leczyć zanim rozprzestrzeni się do pobliskich części ciała. Jeśli to nastąpi, jest znany jako wtórny lub przerzutowy rak piersi.1

Większość nowotworów piersi jest odkrywana we wczesnych stadiach choroby. Jednak niewielka część kobiet odkrywa, że mają raka piersi dopiero po jego rozprzestrzenieniu się do innych części ciała (tzw. przerzuty).1

Badania diagnostyczne w kierunku raka piersi

Lekarze mogą przeprowadzać badania fizykalne lub zlecać mammografię w celu sprawdzenia objawów raka piersi. Mogą również wykonać następujące badania diagnostyczne:1

  • USG piersi
  • Rezonans magnetyczny (MRI) piersi
  • Biopsja piersi
  • Test immunohistochemiczny w celu sprawdzenia receptorów hormonalnych
  • Testy genetyczne w celu identyfikacji mutacji powodujących raka piersi

We wczesnych stadiach rak piersi może być skutecznie leczony i często wyleczalny. Obecnie coraz więcej osób jest diagnozowanych z wczesnym stadium raka piersi – oznacza to, że są diagnozowane, gdy łatwiej jest leczyć nowotwór – a mniej osób umiera z powodu raka piersi.1

Mammografia i badania przesiewowe

Mammografia jest najlepszym dostępnym badaniem do wczesnego wykrywania raka piersi, czasami na lata przed tym, zanim guzek raka piersi będzie wyczuwalny. Wczesne wykrycie raka piersi za pomocą mammografii oznacza, że leczenie może rozpocząć się wcześniej, najczęściej zanim choroba się rozprzestrzeni. Badania wykazują, że mammografia przesiewowa znacznie zmniejsza liczbę zgonów z powodu raka piersi wśród kobiet w wieku od 40 do 74 lat.1

Większość wczesnych nowotworów piersi u kobiet w USA jest wykrywana podczas rutynowych mammografii przesiewowych, zanim pojawią się jakiekolwiek objawy lub symptomy. Dlatego ważne jest, aby pamiętać o regularnych badaniach mammograficznych, które mogą wykryć raka piersi przed pojawieniem się jakichkolwiek objawów, zwłaszcza u kobiet po 40 roku życia lub u tych z historią raka piersi w rodzinie.12

Kiedy należy skonsultować się z lekarzem

Ważne jest, aby rozmawiać z lekarzem lub pielęgniarką onkologiczną, jeśli masz jakiekolwiek objawy, które są: nowe, nie mają oczywistej przyczyny, nie ustępują.1

Dotyczy to również nowych objawów, jeśli już zdiagnozowano u ciebie wtórnego raka piersi, ponieważ może to być oznaka postępu choroby.1

Jeśli zauważysz jakiekolwiek zmiany w piersiach, takie jak guzek, obrzęk lub ból, skontaktuj się z lekarzem w celu uzyskania porady. Może on wykonać kilka badań, aby zidentyfikować, co może powodować twoje objawy.1

Pamiętaj, że wskaźniki przeżywalności raka piersi poprawiają się. Im wcześniej nowotwór zostanie wykryty, tym lepsze mogą być rokowania.1

Należy podkreślić, że wiele objawów raka piersi może być spowodowanych innymi schorzeniami, które nie są rakiem. Posiadanie tych objawów nie oznacza definitywnie, że masz raka piersi, ale ważne jest, aby zostać zbadanym przez lekarza rodzinnego.1

Jeśli twoje objawy są spowodowane rakiem, znalezienie go wcześnie może oznaczać, że łatwiej jest go leczyć.1

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 10.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Symptoms of Breast Cancer | Magee-Womens Hospital UPMC
    https://www.upmc.com/locations/hospitals/magee/services/magee-womens-cancers/breast-cancer-program/symptoms
    Symptoms of breast cancer, particularly in the early stages, are often not acute or intense. But as the tumor grows, it may change how the breast looks and feels. […] Some breast cancer symptoms to look for are: Lumps or thickening of breast tissue, Swelling, warmth, redness, or darkening, Change in the size or shape of your breast, Dimpling or puckering of the skin, Itchy, scaly, sore, or rash on the nipple, Pulling in of your nipple or other parts, Nipple discharge that starts suddenly, New pain in one spot that does not go away. […] However, early detection is key in beating breast cancer. Even if you have none of these symptoms, it is important for all women over 40 to get an annual screening mammogram. […] If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor to make an appointment for an examination.
  • #1 Breast cancer symptoms: Early signs, pictures, and more
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    The most common symptoms of early stage breast cancer are new lumps, changes to skin texture or color, and nipple discharge. […] A new mass or lump in breast tissue is the most common sign of breast cancer. These lumps are usually hard, irregular in shape, and painless. However, some breast cancer tumors may be soft, round, and tender to the touch. […] The following breast changes can also indicate breast cancer: full or partial swelling, thickening of part of a breast, a change in the size or shape of a breast, dimpled skin, discolored, flaky skin on the breast or nipple, breast or nipple pain, pulling in of the nipple, nipple discharge, swollen lymph nodes. […] Since many breast cancers cause no symptoms, people should attend regular screenings. This can help identify the disease in its early stages.
  • #1 Symptoms of Breast Cancer | Breast Cancer | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/symptoms/index.html
    Different people have different symptoms of breast cancer. […] Some people do not have any signs or symptoms at all. […] Some warning signs of breast cancer are: New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit). Thickening or swelling of part of the breast. Irritation or dimpling of breast skin. Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast. Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area. Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood. Any change in the size or the shape of the breast. Pain in any area of the breast. […] Keep in mind that these symptoms can happen with other conditions that are not cancer. If you have any signs or symptoms, be sure to see your doctor right away.
  • #1 Breast cancer – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352470
    Breast cancer is a kind of cancer that begins as a growth of cells in the breast tissue. […] Signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include: A breast lump or thickened area of skin that feels different from the surrounding tissue. A nipple that looks flattened or turns inward. Changes in the color of the breast skin. In people with white skin, the breast skin may look pink or red. In people with brown and Black skin, the breast skin may look darker than the other skin on the chest or it may look red or purple. Change in the size, shape or appearance of a breast. Changes to the skin over the breast, such as skin that looks dimpled or looks like an orange peel. Peeling, scaling, crusting or flaking of the skin on the breast. […] If you find a lump or other change in your breast, make an appointment with a doctor or other healthcare professional. Don’t wait for your next mammogram to see if the change you found is breast cancer. Report any changes in your breasts even if a recent mammogram showed there was no breast cancer.
  • #1 Breast Cancer Symptoms and Signs | City of Hope
    https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/breast-cancer/symptoms
    A painless lump in the breast is usually the first sign of breast cancer, though you may not feel it yourself. Instead, many lumps are detected by a routine screening mammogram. In fact, at the time of diagnosis, most women dont have any apparent signs of breast cancer. When the tumor is small in the early stages of breast cancer, its rarely noticeable to the touch or the naked eye. […] Symptoms of breast tumors vary from person to person. Some common, early warning signs of breast cancer include: Skin changes, such as swelling, redness, or other visible differences in one or both breasts; An increase in size or change in shape of the breast(s); Changes in the appearance of one or both nipples; Nipple discharge other than breast milk; General pain in/on any part of the breast; Lumps or nodes felt on or inside of the breast.
  • #1 Symptoms of breast cancer | Cancer Research UK
    https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/symptoms
    The first symptom of breast cancer most people notice is a lump in their breast or some thickening. […] Symptoms to look out for include: a new lump or thickening in your breast, chest or armpit; skin changes in the breast such as puckering, dimpling, redness, or a rash; nipple changes such as flattening, changes in direction or appearing pulled in also known as inverted; fluid leaking from the nipple when you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding; a change in size, shape or the feel of your breast. […] Breast cancer might cause your breast to look bigger or have a different shape than usual, it might feel different. […] Skin changes of the breast include: puckering, dimpling, rash, redness. […] Fluid leaking from the nipple when you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding. This can be a sign of breast cancer, but other medical conditions can also cause this.
  • #1 Breast Cancer Symptoms: What You Need to Know | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/latest-news/breast-cancer-symptoms-what-you-need-to-know.html
    If the skin of your breast starts to feel thicker and looks a bit like an orange peel, have it checked right away. […] Breast cancer can sometimes cause your nipple to turn inward. If you notice a change in your nipple, get checked by your health care team right away. […] Breast or nipple redness, dryness, flaking or thickening may be symptoms of infection or irritation. However, they may also be caused by breast cancer. […] Having anything other than milk come out of your nipple may be alarming. In most cases it is caused by injury, infection, or a benign tumor (not cancer). However, breast cancer is a possibility, especially if the fluid is bloody, so have your health care team check it out. […] Although most breast cancers do not cause pain in the breast or nipple, some do. More often, women have breast pain or discomfort related to their menstrual cycle. […] Breast health includes not only regular mammograms but also watching for changes in how your breasts look and feel. Become familiar with your breasts and report any changes to your healthcare team right away!
  • #1 Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Types, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3986-breast-cancer
    Breast cancer is when breast cells mutate and become cancerous cells that multiply and form tumors. Breast cancer typically affects women age 50 and older, but it can also affect men, as well as younger women. […] Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers that affects women. It happens when cancerous cells in your breasts multiply and become tumors. About 80% of breast cancer cases are invasive, meaning a tumor may spread from your breast to other areas of your body. […] Breast cancer typically affects women age 50 and older, but it can also affect women who are younger than 50. Men may also develop breast cancer. […] The condition can affect your breasts in different ways. Some breast cancer symptoms are very distinctive. Others may simply seem like areas of your breast that look very different from any other area. Breast cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms either. But when it does, symptoms may include: A change in the size, shape or contour of your breast. A mass or lump, which may feel as small as a pea. A lump or thickening in or near your breast or in your underarm that persists through your menstrual cycle. A change in the look or feel of your skin on your breast or nipple. Your skin may look dimpled, puckered, scaly or inflamed. It may look red, purple or darker than other parts of your breast. A marble-like hardened area under your skin. A blood-stained or clear fluid discharge from your nipple.
  • #1 Breast cancer symptoms you shouldn’t ignore | MD Anderson Cancer Center
    https://www.mdanderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/breast-cancer-symptoms-you-shouldn-t-ignore.h10-1592991.html
    Most breast cancer symptoms are discovered by women during regular daily activities like bathing. Knowing how your breasts look and feel, and being alert for the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, like a lump, can help you detect the disease early, when it’s easiest to treat. […] If you experience any of the following breast cancer symptoms, even if they seem mild, see your doctor. […] A lump in the breast or armpit is the most common symptom of breast cancer. Patients often describe this as a ball or a nodule. Lumps may feel soft and rubbery or hard. […] Be aware of your breasts to detect breast cancer symptoms early. […] What does work? Being aware of how your breasts look and feel and seeing a doctor as soon as you notice changes or abnormalities. […] Bevers advises women to see a doctor if they have one or more symptoms of breast cancer, no matter how mild they may seem. […] The earlier that breast cancer is detected, the better our chances of treating it successfully. […] And you shouldn’t ignore symptoms just because your breasts don’t hurt. Pain is rarely a symptom of breast cancer, she says.
  • #1 Breast Cancer Symptoms and Signs | City of Hope
    https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/breast-cancer/symptoms
    Symptoms more specific to invasive breast cancer are: Irritated or itchy breasts; Change in breast color; Increase in breast size or shape (over a short period of time); Changes in touch (may feel hard, tender or warm); Peeling or flaking of the nipple skin; A breast lump or thickening; Redness or pitting of the breast skin (like the skin of an orange). […] Non-invasive breast cancer is sometimes called stage 0 cancer. It is an early stage of breast cancer, meaning the tumor is often very small. Given that the primary symptom of breast cancer is an abnormal lump in the breast and non-invasive breast cancer usually comes with a tumor thats so small its only detectable by a mammogram, non-invasive breast cancer is unlikely to cause noticeable physical symptoms. […] Invasive breast cancer refers to breast cancer that spreads from the original site to other areas of the breast, the lymph nodes or elsewhere in the body. In these cancers that form in the ducts or lobules, invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) or invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), the cancer spreads from the ducts or lobules to other tissue. Depending on the stage, you may notice symptoms.
  • #1 Breast cancer symptoms: Early signs, pictures, and more
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327488
    In the early stages, invasive lobular carcinoma may not cause symptoms. Or, a person may experience: thickening or hardening of breast tissue rather than a distinct lump, an area of fullness or swelling in the breast, a change in the texture of the breasts skin, the nipple turning inward. […] Invasive ductal carcinoma begins in the cells that line the breasts milk ducts and invade surrounding breast tissue. Over time, cancer can spread to nearby lymph nodes and other tissues. […] In its early stages, invasive ductal carcinoma may not cause symptoms. For some people, the first indication is a new lump or mass within the breast. People with this type of cancer may also experience: swelling of all or part of the breast, pain in the breast or nipple, skin dimpling, discoloration, scaling, or thickening of the nipple or skin, nipple discharge, the nipple turning inward, a lump in the underarm area.
  • #1 Breast Cancer Symptoms and Signs | City of Hope
    https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/breast-cancer/symptoms
    Invasive breast cancer symptoms may include: A lump or mass in the breast; Swelling of all or part of the breast, even if no lump is felt; Skin irritation or dimpling; Breast or nipple pain; Nipple retraction (turning inward); The nipple or breast skin appears red, scaly, or thickened; Nipple discharge; A lump or swelling in the underarm lymph nodes. […] Unlike other breast cancers, inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) rarely causes breast lumps and may not appear on a mammogram. Inflammatory breast cancer symptoms include: Red, swollen, itchy breast that is tender to the touch; The surface of the breast may take on a ridged or pitted appearance, similar to an orange peel (often called peau dorange); Heaviness, burning, or aching in one breast; One breast is visibly larger than the other; Inverted nipple (facing inward); No mass is felt with a breast self-exam; Swollen lymph nodes under the arm and/or above the collarbone; Symptoms unresolved after a course of antibiotics.
  • #1 Breast Cancer Stages 0–4: Symptoms and Treatment
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/stages-of-breast-cancer-8362458
    Stage 0 breast cancer generally has no signs or symptoms. Often there isn’t a lump that you or your healthcare provider can feel. One potential symptom is slight discharge from the nipple. […] Stage 1 breast cancer typically has started to grow into surrounding breast tissues. The most common symptom of early breast cancer is a new lump or mass. […] Stage 2 breast cancers may cause symptoms like breast or nipple pain, dry or flaking nipple or breast skin, and nipple discharge (other than breast milk). […] Symptoms of invasive breast cancers are similar to earlier-stage cancers. They can include breast skin that is red, dimpled, or puckered, an unexplained rash on the breast, fluid coming out of the nipple (that is not breast milk), a lump near the breast or armpit, and a change in the shape or feel of the breast.
  • #1 Breast Cancer Stages 0–4: Symptoms and Treatment
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/stages-of-breast-cancer-8362458
    Common symptoms of advanced cancers include pain, fatigue and weakness, loss of appetite, weight changes, nausea and vomiting, constipation, shortness of breath, and bone pain that becomes constant, fractures. […] Five-year survival rates for breast cancer are 99% for localized (stage 1 and some stage 2), 86% for regional (stage 3 and some stage 2), and 31% for distant (stage 4).
  • #1 Secondary breast cancer symptoms | Breast Cancer Now
    https://breastcancernow.org/about-breast-cancer/secondary-breast-cancer/secondary-breast-cancer-symptoms/
    Secondary breast cancer occurs when breast cancer cells spread from the primary (first) cancer in the breast to other parts of the body. […] Many symptoms of secondary breast cancer are very similar to those of other conditions. Any new symptom will understandably cause worry. It is always important to get any concerns checked out. […] Some general symptoms that breast cancer may have spread include: Feeling constantly tired, Constant nausea (feeling sick), Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite. […] The main symptoms of secondary breast cancer in the bone include: Pain in your bones, which doesn’t get better with pain relief and may be worse when lying down or at night, Bone fractures (breaks), Unexplained back pain, difficulty walking, numbness and loss of bladder or bowel control.
  • #1 Secondary breast cancer symptoms | Breast Cancer Now
    https://breastcancernow.org/about-breast-cancer/secondary-breast-cancer/secondary-breast-cancer-symptoms/
    Symptoms of secondary breast cancer in the lungs include: Feeling out of breath either when doing activity or resting, A cough that doesn’t go away, Pain or tightness in the chest that doesn’t go away. […] Symptoms of secondary breast cancer in the liver include: Pain in the tummy (abdomen) which may also be felt in the right shoulder, Discomfort or pain in the right side of the abdomen under the ribs, Feeling sick (nausea), Loss of appetite and weight loss, Hiccups, Build-up of fluid in the abdomen causing swelling (ascites), A general feeling of being unwell, Feeling constantly tired, Itching and yellowing of the skin (jaundice). […] Symptoms of secondary breast cancer in the brain include: Headache, Feeling sick (nausea) and being sick (vomiting) especially when waking in the morning, Weakness or feeling numb down one side of the body, Dizziness, unsteadiness or loss of balance and co-ordination, Fits (seizures), Difficulty with speech, Problems with vision, Changes in behaviour, mood or personality, Confusion, Memory problems.
  • #1 Secondary breast cancer symptoms | Breast Cancer Now
    https://breastcancernow.org/about-breast-cancer/secondary-breast-cancer/secondary-breast-cancer-symptoms/
    Symptoms of secondary breast cancer in the skin include: A change in the colour of the skin, A persistent rash, A firm, painless small lump (nodule) or multiple lumps of different sizes, Lymphoedema (swelling of the arm, hand or breast area), Pain, Bleeding, Infection, Smell. […] Signs that breast cancer has spread to the lymph nodes include: A lump or swelling under your arm, breastbone or collarbone area, Swelling in your arm or hand, Pain, Dry cough. […] It’s important to talk to your GP or breast care nurse if you have any symptoms that are: New, Don’t have an obvious cause, Don’t go away. […] This also applies to new symptoms if you have already been diagnosed with secondary breast cancer as it may be a sign of the cancer progressing.
  • #1
    https://www.prevention.com/health/health-conditions/a62554937/uncommon-breast-cancer-symptoms/
    Breast cancer symptoms dont always include a lump. […] While most people know more obvious signs of breast cancer, like a lump, there are uncommon breast cancer symptoms to have on your radar. […] Most breast cancers dont start with a lump that can be detected by touch, making it crucial to both be aware of all symptoms of the disease, as well as follow recommendations on screening for breast cancer. […] However, the ACS stresses that most breast lumps are not cancer. […] Keep in mind that a painless, hard mass that has irregular edges is more likely to be cancer, but breast cancer can also be soft, round tender, or painful. […] But these are some of the less common symptoms of breast cancer: A peeling, rash-like eruption around the nipple called Pagets disease, A rapid inflammation and swelling of the breast, Breast skin that has an orange-peel appearance, Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit area with no obvious breast mass, Retraction of the nipple or skin inward, Heaviness or swelling of the breast that persists outside of your monthly cycle changes or menopausal changes, A persistent bloody discharge from the nipple.
  • #1 5 lesser-known breast cancer symptoms | Ohio State Health & Discovery
    https://health.osu.edu/health/cancer/lesser-known-breast-cancer-symptoms
    Scaly, dry skin around the nipple. This can resemble a rash on the nipple, which may become red and irritated. The nipple may look like its scabbed over. This can be associated with benign causes, such as contact dermatitis or infection; however, it also can be a sign of a subtype of breast cancer called Pagets disease, which commonly only involves the nipple. […] Secretions other than milk from the nipple. While some women have milky discharge thats not a cause for concern, spontaneously producing nipple discharge can be a breast cancer symptom. If the fluid is clear or bloody, its especially a cause for concern. […] Swelling around the armpit or breast itself that creates a noticeable size difference. This can happen if the tumor extends into the armpit while rapidly growing. More commonly, there are lymph nodes in this area that are enlarging due to inflammatory changes associated with infection, allergies and recent vaccinations in that arm.
  • #1 Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Stages, Types, and More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/breast-cancer
    If you have any of these symptoms, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have breast cancer. For instance, pain in your breast or a breast lump can be caused by a benign cyst. […] Still, if you find a lump in your breast or have other symptoms, speak with a doctor for further examination and testing. […] The uncontrolled cancer cells often invade other healthy breast tissue and can travel to the lymph nodes under the arms. Once the cancer enters the lymph nodes, it has access to a pathway to move to other body parts. […] Breast cancer has five main stages: stages 0 to 4. […] Stage 4 breast cancer can have a tumor of any size. Its cancer cells have spread to nearby and distant lymph nodes as well as distant organs. […] If you notice any changes to your breast, such as a lump, swelling, or pain, reach out to a healthcare professional for advice. They can run some tests to identify what could be causing your symptoms. […] Remember, breast cancer survival rates are improving. The earlier the cancer is caught, the better your outlook may be.
  • #1 Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Stages, Diagnosis, Treatment
    https://patient.info/cancer/breast-cancer-leaflet
    Other signs which may be noticed in the affected breast include: Changes in the size or shape of a breast. Dimpling or thickening of some of the skin on a part of a breast. The nipple turning in (becoming inverted). Rarely, a discharge occurring from a nipple (which may be bloodstained). A rare type of breast cancer, causing a rash around the nipple, which can look similar to a small patch of eczema. Rarely, pain in a breast. Note: pain is not a usual early symptom. Many women develop painful breasts (mastalgia) and this is not usually caused by cancer. […] The first place that breast cancer usually spreads to is the lymph glands (nodes) in the armpit (axilla). If this occurs, you may develop a swelling or lump in an armpit. If the cancer spreads to other parts of the body then various other symptoms can develop.
  • #1 Metastatic Breast Cancer Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis & More
    https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/metastatic-breast-cancer/
    Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is Stage 4 breast cancer that has spread from the original location in the breast to other areas of the body. […] When breast cancer recurs, or returns, to another part of the body months or years after the initial breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, it is called metastatic breast cancer. […] The most common distant areas for invasive ductal breast cancer to spread to are the bones, lungs, liver, and brain. […] There is currently no cure available for metastatic breast cancer, but more and more women are living longer with the disease by managing it as a chronic illness with a focus on quality of life as a primary goal. […] While early stage breast cancer may not have any signs or symptoms, advanced cancer such as metastatic breast cancer may have signs and symptoms that the patient is aware of.
  • #1 Metastatic Breast Cancer Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis & More
    https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/metastatic-breast-cancer/
    According to Johns Hopkins, people, especially those who have been treated for breast cancer, should watch for symptoms such as: Unusual or persistent back or neck pain (that is not explained by an injury or exercise), Pain in the bones, Unexplained shortness of breath, Profound fatigue or malaise (feeling generally unwell), Headache, Seizures, Mood changes, Difficulty with speech, Vision changes. […] Metastatic breast cancer may have additional, specific symptoms, depending on the location of the metastases. […] Metastatic breast cancer with bone metastasis is when breast cancer has spread from the original location in the breast to the bones. […] Some of the first signs of metastatic breast cancer in the bones can include: Severe, progressive bone pain, particularly in the spine, ribs, pelvis, or long bones in the arms and legs.
  • #1 Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Types, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3986-breast-cancer
    Breast cancer survival rates vary based on several factors, like whether the cancer is invasive or noninvasive, the cancer type and the cancer stage. According to data kept by the National Cancer Institute (U.S.), overall, 91% of people with breast cancer were alive five years after diagnosis. […] Right now, more people are being diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer meaning they’re diagnosed when it’s easier to treat and fewer people are dying of breast cancer. […] You can have breast cancer for years before noticing changes in your breasts like a lump. That said, not all lumps or bumps are cancer. Check with a healthcare provider if you have an unusual bump or mass that doesn’t go away after a few days. […] That depends on several factors, including the type of breast cancer you have, whether it’s hereditary and, the tumor stage and grade. If you have breast cancer, ask your healthcare provider for information about what you can expect.
  • #1 Early-Onset Breast Cancer (Breast Cancer in Young Women)
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16805-breast-cancer-in-young-women
    If you do develop breast cancer, theyll be more likely to catch it earlier when it hasnt had time to spread (metastasize) to other organs and is most responsive to treatment. […] The relative five-year survival rate for women with invasive breast cancer that hasnt spread (metastasized) is 91%. This means that most people diagnosed at this stage are alive five years after diagnosis. […] If the cancer spreads beyond your breast to lymph nodes or other organs survival rates decrease. The five-year survival rate for breast cancer thats spread to lymph nodes is 86%. […] If it spreads to a distant part of your body, like your bones, liver, lungs or brain, the five-year survival rate is 31%.
  • #1 Breast Cancer Symptoms and Signs | City of Hope
    https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/breast-cancer/symptoms
    Breast cancer is most often associated with having a breast lump. However, your symptoms may vary depending on your specific type of breast cancer. While its true that many patients have a lump, it is possible to have breast cancer with no lump. So its important to know the other signs and symptoms. […] In general, the body produces certain warning signs. The most common is the breast lump, which may be located anywhere along your chest wall to under your armpit. You may have nipple bleeding or discharge, as well as related pain. There may be redness and/or swelling in any area of the breast or in one breast and not the other, and your nipple could look flatter or caved in. […] Early detection of breast cancer is key when it comes to breast cancer treatment options. If you have concerns with any new changes in your breasts, ask your doctor to review your symptoms and determine whether theres a need for further evaluation.
  • #1 Breast cancer (female) | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/cancer-types-in-adults/breast-cancer-female/
    If cancer is detected at an early stage, it can be treated before it spreads to nearby parts of the body. […] If this happens, it’s known as secondary or metastatic breast cancer. […] Most breast cancers are discovered in the condition’s early stages. However, a small proportion of women discover that they have breast cancer after it’s spread to other parts of the body (known as metastasis). […] Secondary cancer, also called advanced or metastatic cancer, isn’t curable and treatment aims to achieve remission (where the cancer shrinks or disappears, and you feel normal and able to enjoy life to the full).
  • #1 Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Types, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3986-breast-cancer
    Experts know breast cancer happens when breast cells mutate and become cancerous cells that divide and multiply to create tumors. They aren’t sure what triggers that change. However, research shows there are several risk factors that may increase your chances of developing breast cancer. […] The most significant complication is metastatic breast cancer breast cancer that spreads to other areas of your body, including your brain, bones, liver and lungs. Studies show about 1 in 3 women who have early-stage cancer later develop metastatic breast cancer. […] Healthcare providers may do physical examinations or order mammograms to check for signs of breast cancer. But they do the following tests to diagnose the disease: Breast ultrasound. Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Breast biopsy. Immunohistochemistry test to check for hormone receptors. Genetic tests to identify mutations that cause breast cancer.
  • #1 8 Early Signs of Breast Cancer: What To Look For? | The University of Kansas Cancer Center
    https://www.kucancercenter.org/news-room/blog/2020/07/8-early-signs-of-breast-cancer
    Woman Smiling. Pinpointing breast cancer in its earliest stages isnt easy because breast cancer signs and symptoms are different for everyone. Sometimes there is a palpable lump or tenderness. Very often, there is neither. Generally, breast cancer shows no symptoms in the early stage. […] The following early signs and symptoms of breast cancer can happen with other conditions that are not cancer related. New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit). Thickening or swelling of part of the breast. Irritation or dimpling of breast skin. Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area of the breast. Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area. Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood. Any change in the size or the shape of the breast. Pain in any area of the breast. […] A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. It is used to screen for breast cancer. The digital mammograms we obtain provide a 3D image of your breast to show any masses or abnormalities such as calcifications. Mammograms are the best test available to find breast cancer early, sometimes years before a breast cancer lump can be felt. Early detection of breast cancer with mammography means that treatment can begin earlier, most often before the disease has spread. Studies show that screening mammography significantly reduces the number of deaths from breast cancer among women ages 40 to 74. […] In 2020, an estimated 276,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S., along with 48,530 new cases of noninvasive (in situ) breast cancer. About 2,620 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in men in 2020.
  • #1 Cancer signs and symptoms | Cancer Research UK
    https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-symptoms
    Unusual breast or chest changes […] Look out for any change in the size, shape or feel of your breast or chest, or any skin changes, redness, or pain in the breast. […] Nipple changes include changes to the look, position, or feel of a nipple, or fluid leaking from the nipple (discharge) if you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding. This fluid could also be blood stained. […] Breast cancer is most common in women, but all people can get it. The first symptom of breast cancer most people notice is a lump in their breast or some thickening.
  • #1 Symptoms of breast cancer in women – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cancer-in-women/symptoms-of-breast-cancer-in-women/
    Symptoms of breast cancer in women may include: a lump, or swelling in your breast, chest or armpit […] a change in the skin of your breast, such as dimpling (may look like orange peel) or redness (may be harder to see on black or brown skin) […] a change in size or shape of 1 or both breasts […] nipple discharge (if you are not pregnant or breastfeeding), which may have blood in it […] a change in the shape or look of your nipple, such as it turning inwards (inverted nipple) or a rash on it (may look like eczema) […] pain in your breast or armpit which does not go away breast pain that comes and goes is usually not a symptom of breast cancer. Some of these symptoms, including breast lumps, are very common and can be caused by other conditions. Having the symptoms does not definitely mean you have breast cancer, but it’s important to get checked by a GP. If your symptoms are caused by cancer, finding it early may mean it’s easier to treat. If breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body it’s called secondary breast cancer. The symptoms depend on which part of the body the cancer has spread to. It can spread anywhere, but it most commonly affects the bones, liver, lungs or brain. You may also have general symptoms including: feeling tired or having no energy
  • #2 Breast Cancer Symptoms & Risks | The University of Kansas Cancer Center
    https://www.kucancercenter.org/cancer/cancer-types/breast-cancer/breast-cancer-symptoms-risks
    The most common symptom people associate with breast cancer is finding a lump in your breast or underarm. Typically painless, lumps are often visible during a mammogram even before you can feel them. […] Other breast cancer symptoms include: Breast swelling, even without a distinct lump, Changes in breast size or shape, Changes in breast skin texture or appearance, Changes in nipple appearance, such as turning inward, reddening or flaky skin, Nipple pain or discharge, Pain in any area of the breast. […] Often breast cancer has no symptoms, especially in its earliest stages. Different types of breast cancer can have different symptoms as well. […] Most instances of breast cancer are found by women during their normal daily routine, like while getting dressed or taking a shower. Its important to be familiar with the way your breasts look and feel, including any typical changes that occur during your monthly cycle. This helps you notice any unusual changes in breast appearance sooner. […] For those who are diagnosed, early detection provides the best outcomes and saves lives. Nearly 99% of women with stage 1 breast cancer survive 5 years or more. With the right technology and the right imaging experts, breast cancer is detectable even at its earliest stage, when its 99% curable.
  • #2 Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Types, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3986-breast-cancer
    Breast cancer is when breast cells mutate and become cancerous cells that multiply and form tumors. Breast cancer typically affects women age 50 and older, but it can also affect men, as well as younger women. […] Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers that affects women. It happens when cancerous cells in your breasts multiply and become tumors. About 80% of breast cancer cases are invasive, meaning a tumor may spread from your breast to other areas of your body. […] Breast cancer typically affects women age 50 and older, but it can also affect women who are younger than 50. Men may also develop breast cancer. […] The condition can affect your breasts in different ways. Some breast cancer symptoms are very distinctive. Others may simply seem like areas of your breast that look very different from any other area. Breast cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms either. But when it does, symptoms may include: A change in the size, shape or contour of your breast. A mass or lump, which may feel as small as a pea. A lump or thickening in or near your breast or in your underarm that persists through your menstrual cycle. A change in the look or feel of your skin on your breast or nipple. Your skin may look dimpled, puckered, scaly or inflamed. It may look red, purple or darker than other parts of your breast. A marble-like hardened area under your skin. A blood-stained or clear fluid discharge from your nipple.
  • #2 Symptoms of breast cancer in women – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cancer-in-women/symptoms-of-breast-cancer-in-women/
    Symptoms of breast cancer in women may include: a lump, or swelling in your breast, chest or armpit […] a change in the skin of your breast, such as dimpling (may look like orange peel) or redness (may be harder to see on black or brown skin) […] a change in size or shape of 1 or both breasts […] nipple discharge (if you are not pregnant or breastfeeding), which may have blood in it […] a change in the shape or look of your nipple, such as it turning inwards (inverted nipple) or a rash on it (may look like eczema) […] pain in your breast or armpit which does not go away breast pain that comes and goes is usually not a symptom of breast cancer. Some of these symptoms, including breast lumps, are very common and can be caused by other conditions. Having the symptoms does not definitely mean you have breast cancer, but it’s important to get checked by a GP. If your symptoms are caused by cancer, finding it early may mean it’s easier to treat. If breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body it’s called secondary breast cancer. The symptoms depend on which part of the body the cancer has spread to. It can spread anywhere, but it most commonly affects the bones, liver, lungs or brain. You may also have general symptoms including: feeling tired or having no energy
  • #2 Breast cancer (female) | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/cancer-types-in-adults/breast-cancer-female/
    Breast cancer can have a number of symptoms, but the first noticeable symptom is usually a lump or area of thickened breast tissue. […] You should also speak to your GP if you notice any of the following: a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts, discharge from either of your nipples (which may be streaked with blood), a lump or swelling in either of your armpits, dimpling on the skin of your breasts, a rash on or around your nipple, a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast. […] The first symptom of breast cancer most women notice is a lump or an area of thickened tissue in their breast. […] Most breast lumps (90%) aren’t cancerous, but it’s always best to have them checked by your doctor. […] Breast pain alone isn’t a symptom of breast cancer.
  • #2 Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
    https://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/understanding-breast-cancer-basics
    A lump under the breast, which you may or may not feel, is usually the first sign of breast cancer. […] The symptoms of breast cancer can include: A lump or thickened area in or near your breast or underarm that lasts through your period. […] A mass or lump, even if it feels as small as a pea. […] A change in your breasts size, shape, or curve. […] Nipple discharge that can be bloody or clear. […] Changes in the skin of your breast or your nipple. It could be dimpled, puckered, scaly, or inflamed. […] Red skin on your breast or nipple. […] Changes in the shape or position of your nipple. […] An area that’s different from any other area on either breast. […] A hard, marble-sized spot under your skin. […] Breast cancer usually begins either in your glands that make milk (called lobular carcinoma) or the ducts that carry it to the nipple (called ductal carcinoma). It can grow larger in your breast and spread to nearby lymph nodes or through your bloodstream to other organs. The cancer may grow and invade tissue around your breast, such as your skin or chest wall. […] Different types of breast cancer grow and spread at different rates. Some take years to spread beyond your breast, while others grow and spread quickly.
  • #2 Breast Cancer Symptoms and Early Warning Signs
    https://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/understanding-breast-cancer-symptoms
    Breast cancer can have different symptoms for different people. Many don’t notice any signs at all. […] The most common symptom is a new lump in your breast or armpit that doesn’t go away. […] Others include: Texture changes to the skin on your breast, such as a rash, redness, or dimpling. The skin could resemble the peel of an orange. […] Swelling in your armpit or near your collarbone. This could mean breast cancer has spread to lymph nodes (small organs that are part of your immune system) in that area. […] Pain and tenderness, although lumps don’t usually hurt. Some may cause a prickly feeling. […] A flat or indented area on your breast. This could happen because of a tumor you can’t see or feel. […] Breast changes such as a difference in the size, shape, texture, or temperature of your breast.
  • #2 Breast cancer – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352470
    Breast cancer is a kind of cancer that begins as a growth of cells in the breast tissue. […] Signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include: A breast lump or thickened area of skin that feels different from the surrounding tissue. A nipple that looks flattened or turns inward. Changes in the color of the breast skin. In people with white skin, the breast skin may look pink or red. In people with brown and Black skin, the breast skin may look darker than the other skin on the chest or it may look red or purple. Change in the size, shape or appearance of a breast. Changes to the skin over the breast, such as skin that looks dimpled or looks like an orange peel. Peeling, scaling, crusting or flaking of the skin on the breast. […] If you find a lump or other change in your breast, make an appointment with a doctor or other healthcare professional. Don’t wait for your next mammogram to see if the change you found is breast cancer. Report any changes in your breasts even if a recent mammogram showed there was no breast cancer.
  • #2 Breast cancer symptoms: Common and lesser known | HealthPartners Blog
    https://www.healthpartners.com/blog/breast-cancer-signs-and-symptoms/
    Bleeding or unusual discharge can signal a treatable infection, especially if youre lactating. But bloody or clear discharge from a single milk duct can be a breast cancer symptom in some cases and should be evaluated by a doctor or clinician. […] Breast cancer can cause breasts to grow bigger or decrease in size. […] If lymph nodes are swollen because of an illness, they should return to normal once youre feeling better. But if swelling lasts for more than a month or continues to get worse, it may be a sign of something more serious, including breast cancer. […] But if youve been having localized breast pain that doesnt go away and youre not sure whats causing it, dont ignore it. […] Many women who are diagnosed with breast cancer say they didnt notice any symptoms before their diagnosis.
  • #2
    https://www.prevention.com/health/health-conditions/a62554937/uncommon-breast-cancer-symptoms/
    There is a common myth that breast cancer doesnt cause painbut Dr. Soliman stresses thats not true. […] Pain is felt when the cancer causes compression or irritation of adjacent nerve endings. […] Women may feel pain when the tumor is compressing against or invading into the chest wall or upper arm nerves for example. […] Pain can also be felt when tumor cells or nearby tissues give off inflammatory substances that can activate pain receptors in the area. […] If you have symptoms of breast cancer, its important to get them checked out ASAP. […] Timely action is critical to get the best outcome. […] While its crucial to be aware of the symptoms of breast cancerand to take action if you notice themits also vital to be on top of mammogram screenings. […] After all, most women who are diagnosed with breast cancer never have any signs or symptoms. […] The whole rationale of screening is recognizing that there is going to be a cancer development in a population. […] But we also know that the earlier you catch a cancer, the more likely you can cure it.
  • #2 What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
    https://www.rwjbh.org/treatment-care/cancer/types-of-cancer/breast-cancer/symptoms/
    Symptoms may be similar to symptoms of other cancer types, but cancer may spread and grow faster than other types of breast cancer. […] Its symptoms may mirror those of an infection, including: Breast warmness, swelling, and redness; Dimpled, leathery, or rigid skin; Inverted nipples; Nipple discharge. […] Symptoms may include: A small, hard cyst; Bloody nipple discharge. […] Symptoms may include: A lump; A purple, bruised area of the skin; Skin that bleeds easily; Pain localized to one area. […] Many of the breast cancer symptoms and signs of breast cancer can mimic other health problems and not necessarily mean you have breast cancer.
  • #2 Breast Cancer Stages 0–4: Symptoms and Treatment
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/stages-of-breast-cancer-8362458
    Stage 0 breast cancer generally has no signs or symptoms. Often there isn’t a lump that you or your healthcare provider can feel. One potential symptom is slight discharge from the nipple. […] Stage 1 breast cancer typically has started to grow into surrounding breast tissues. The most common symptom of early breast cancer is a new lump or mass. […] Stage 2 breast cancers may cause symptoms like breast or nipple pain, dry or flaking nipple or breast skin, and nipple discharge (other than breast milk). […] Symptoms of invasive breast cancers are similar to earlier-stage cancers. They can include breast skin that is red, dimpled, or puckered, an unexplained rash on the breast, fluid coming out of the nipple (that is not breast milk), a lump near the breast or armpit, and a change in the shape or feel of the breast.
  • #2 Breast Cancer Symptoms By Stage (1-4) – Oncology Nurse Advisor
    https://www.oncologynurseadvisor.com/features/breast-cancer-symptoms/
    At stage 3, other symptoms may appear depending on where the cancer has spread. If it has spread to the skin, patients may experience a new lump, additional redness and swelling, and possible ulcerations. […] The effects of metastasized breast cancer may include not only existing breast cancer symptoms that can start at earlier stages, but also symptoms that may affect the parts of the body where the cancer has spread. If the cancer has metastasized to the lungs, patients may experience chest pains or a chronic cough. Metastasis to the liver could cause jaundice, nausea, and abdominal pain. Cancer that has spread to the bone can cause additional swelling and susceptibility to breaks. If it has spread to the brain, patients could potentially experience seizures, headaches, and even behavioral changes. […] At stage 4, patients with breast cancer may also experience symptoms not necessarily specific to the affected organs, such as fatigue and unexplained weight loss.
  • #2
    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/breast-cancer
    Most breast lumps are not cancer. Breast lumps that are cancerous are more likely to be successfully treated when they are small and have not spread to nearby lymph nodes. […] Over time, cancerous cells may spread to other organs including the lungs, liver, brain and bones. Once they reach these sites, new cancer-related symptoms such as bone pain or headaches may appear.
  • #2 Metastatic Breast Cancer Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis & More
    https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/metastatic-breast-cancer/
    According to Johns Hopkins, people, especially those who have been treated for breast cancer, should watch for symptoms such as: Unusual or persistent back or neck pain (that is not explained by an injury or exercise), Pain in the bones, Unexplained shortness of breath, Profound fatigue or malaise (feeling generally unwell), Headache, Seizures, Mood changes, Difficulty with speech, Vision changes. […] Metastatic breast cancer may have additional, specific symptoms, depending on the location of the metastases. […] Metastatic breast cancer with bone metastasis is when breast cancer has spread from the original location in the breast to the bones. […] Some of the first signs of metastatic breast cancer in the bones can include: Severe, progressive bone pain, particularly in the spine, ribs, pelvis, or long bones in the arms and legs.
  • #2 Metastatic Breast Cancer Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis & More
    https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/metastatic-breast-cancer/
    Breast cancer metastasis to the lungs is when breast cancer has spread from the original location in the breast to one or both lungs. […] Lung metastases rarely produce symptoms in metastatic breast cancer patients. […] Breast cancer metastasis in the liver is when breast cancer has spread from the original location in the breast to the liver. […] Liver metastases rarely produce symptoms. […] Breast cancer metastasis in the brain means that breast cancer has spread from the original location in the breast to the brain. […] Metastasis of breast cancer to the brain can cause a variety of symptoms, including: Persistent, progressively worsening headaches or pressure in the head, Memory loss, Vision disturbances, such as blurred vision, double vision, loss of vision, or seeing flashes of light, Slurred speech, Dizziness, Balance problems, Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, Numbness or tingling in the extremities, Nausea or vomiting, Seizures, Strokes, Mood, personality, or behavioral changes, Impaired judgment.
  • #2 5 lesser-known breast cancer symptoms | Ohio State Health & Discovery
    https://health.osu.edu/health/cancer/lesser-known-breast-cancer-symptoms
    Each year, 240,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It remains the second leading cause of death among women. […] While a majority of adults (93%) recognize a lump as one of the more common signs of breast cancer, there are actually a number of breast changes that could indicate early symptoms. […] These symptoms can indicate different types of breast cancer: […] A red, swollen breast thats warm to the touch. This happens most commonly due to infection or systemic inflammation. In some cases, your skin could resemble the texture of an orange peel. That dimpled texture could be a symptom of inflammatory breast cancer, which is a rare, aggressive form of breast cancer. […] The nipple starts inverting, pulling inward. As a tumor grows within the breast, it will sometimes tug part of the breast tissue toward the tumor, causing that nipple to become inverted.
  • #2 What Is Breast Cancer? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
    https://www.everydayhealth.com/breast-cancer/guide/
    Nipples that turn inward without explanation […] Irritated or itchy breasts […] A rash on the breast, which can be a sign of inflammatory breast cancer. […] While a lump can be a sign of cancer, nearly 80 percent of lumps found in the breast turn out to be noncancerous. […] Breast cancer may cause any of these symptoms. Some people experience no symptoms at all. […] Doctors can screen for breast cancer using a mammogram. […] The only way to make a certain diagnosis of breast cancer is a biopsy. A biopsy involves removing some breast tissue from the suspicious area and looking at the cells under a microscope. […] Doctors use stages of breast cancer to describe how far along the cancer has grown or spread. Stages range from 0 to 4 (often expressed in Roman numerals, IIV). […] Stage 0: The cancer is noninvasive and shows no evidence of leaving the part of the breast where it began.
  • #2 Breast Cancer Symptoms and Early Warning Signs
    https://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/understanding-breast-cancer-symptoms
    Any type of breast cancer that’s spread from where it began into the tissues around it is called invasive or infiltrating. You may notice: A lump in your breast or armpit. You might not be able to move it separately from your skin or move it at all. […] Without treatment, breast cancer can spread to other parts of your body, including other organs. This is called metastatic, advanced, or secondary breast cancer. […] Breast cancer symptoms vary from person to person, and many people don’t have any symptoms in the early stages. Some common symptoms include breast lumps, pain, swelling, and changes to the skin. If you notice any unusual changes to your breasts, see a doctor.
  • #2 Early-Onset Breast Cancer (Breast Cancer in Young Women)
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16805-breast-cancer-in-young-women
    If you do develop breast cancer, theyll be more likely to catch it earlier when it hasnt had time to spread (metastasize) to other organs and is most responsive to treatment. […] The relative five-year survival rate for women with invasive breast cancer that hasnt spread (metastasized) is 91%. This means that most people diagnosed at this stage are alive five years after diagnosis. […] If the cancer spreads beyond your breast to lymph nodes or other organs survival rates decrease. The five-year survival rate for breast cancer thats spread to lymph nodes is 86%. […] If it spreads to a distant part of your body, like your bones, liver, lungs or brain, the five-year survival rate is 31%.
  • #2 Warning Signs of Breast Cancer | Susan G. Komen®
    https://www.komen.org/breast-cancer/signs-symptoms/warning-signs/
    Most early-stage breast cancers in the U.S. are found with screening mammography, before any warning signs or symptoms appear. […] However, breast cancer can also be found when people have warning signs. So, its important to be aware of these warning signs and see a health care provider if you notice any changes in your breast or underarm area. […] The warning signs of breast cancer are not the same for all women. […] The most common warning signs are: A change in the look or feel of the breast, A change in the look or feel of the nipple, Nipple discharge. […] If a change turns out to be breast cancer, its best to find it at an early stage when the chances of survival are highest. […] Lumps that feel harder or different from the rest of the breast (or the other breast) or that feel like a change should be checked. This type of lump may be a sign of breast cancer or a benign (not cancer) breast condition, such as a cyst or fibroadenoma. […] If you have any nipple discharge, see a health care provider.
  • #2 Understanding Breast Cancer Symptoms: What to Look For and When to Seek Help – Rocky Mountain Oncology Center
    https://rockymountainoncology.com/news/understanding-breast-cancer-symptoms-what-to-look-for-and-when-to-seek-help/
    Its important to note that many breast changes, such as lumps or skin texture variations, are not cancerous and may be due to benign conditions like cysts or hormonal fluctuations. However, because breast cancer can present with subtle symptoms, you should see your doctor if you notice any of the following: A new lump or mass in the breast, Persistent pain or discomfort in the breast or nipple, Changes in the appearance of the breast, nipple, or skin, Unexplained nipple discharge, especially if bloody, Swelling or tenderness in the lymph nodes. […] While being vigilant about breast cancer symptoms is crucial, routine screening plays a major role in early detection. Mammograms can often detect breast cancer before any symptoms appear, especially in women over 40 or those with a family history of breast cancer.
  • #3 5 lesser-known breast cancer symptoms | Ohio State Health & Discovery
    https://health.osu.edu/health/cancer/lesser-known-breast-cancer-symptoms
    Scaly, dry skin around the nipple. This can resemble a rash on the nipple, which may become red and irritated. The nipple may look like its scabbed over. This can be associated with benign causes, such as contact dermatitis or infection; however, it also can be a sign of a subtype of breast cancer called Pagets disease, which commonly only involves the nipple. […] Secretions other than milk from the nipple. While some women have milky discharge thats not a cause for concern, spontaneously producing nipple discharge can be a breast cancer symptom. If the fluid is clear or bloody, its especially a cause for concern. […] Swelling around the armpit or breast itself that creates a noticeable size difference. This can happen if the tumor extends into the armpit while rapidly growing. More commonly, there are lymph nodes in this area that are enlarging due to inflammatory changes associated with infection, allergies and recent vaccinations in that arm.
  • #3 What Is Breast Cancer? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
    https://www.everydayhealth.com/breast-cancer/guide/
    Stage 1: The cancer cells are spreading to surrounding breast tissue, but the group of cancer cells or the tumor remains very small. […] Stage 2: The cancer has begun to grow but it remains only in the breast or nearby lymph nodes. […] Stage 3: The cancer has begun invading lymph nodes, muscle, and other body tissue near the breast, but it has not reached organs farther away. […] Stage 4: The cancer is very advanced and has spread to several organs or other parts of the body. […] Prognosis depends on the stage of breast cancer and the general health of any given individual. But broadly, rates of death from breast cancer have been decreasing. The majority of women survive this cancer. Overall, 90 percent of women will survive at least five years after being diagnosed with breast cancer.