Breast cancer develops in the breast tissue, and this disease mostly affects women over 40 years of age. That said, it can also develop among teenagers and men. Early detection of breast cancer is extremely crucial as it tremendously improves the likelihood of successful treatment and increases the chances of survival. It’s imperative to understand the manifestation of the common and rare signs of breast cancer to facilitate early diagnosis and timely treatment.

Let’s look at both the common and rare signs of breast cancer that everyone should know about:

• Lump or thickening in the breast:  A lump in the armpit or above the collarbone that does not dissolve in two weeks requires a visit to the doctor. All changes in the lymph node are not cancerous, but it’s advisable to consult a doctor to confirm this.
• Changes in the texture of the skin:  Inflammation in the skin cells can lead to alteration in the texture of one or both the breasts. Rashes or small red or purple spots on the breast area like that of an insect bite should not be ignored, especially if they cause persistent itching and discomfort. The changes may indicate breast cancer.
• Painful swelling:  Generally, painful, tender, and swollen breasts are a result of hormonal changes during menopause. However, persistent pain and swelling may be one of the common signs of breast cancer in women over 40.
• Discharge from the nipples:  If one notices a nipple discharge that is clear, milky, yellow, red, or green in color, it’s best to visit a doctor at the earliest.
• Skin dimpling:  This can sometimes be a sign of inflammatory and aggressive breast cancer. Dimpled skin looks like the surface of an orange, and this common sign of breast cancer should not be ignored.
• Puckering of the breast:  An indentation in the breast can be seen, especially when one raises their arms. Also, it tends to retract as they put the arms back down. This is another manifestation of the common or rare signs of breast cancer that most people tend to overlook. One must seek medical advice immediately if they notice this symptom.
• Nipple inversion or retraction:  Breast cancer can trigger cell changes behind the nipple, resulting in the nipple reversing inward into the breast. Many a time, the size of the nipple alters as it inverts. It is important to see a doctor about any changes in the nipple.
• Red spots or blotches:  It’s best to go for a checkup immediately if one notices red spots or blotches on the breast area. In some cases, there may be large patches of discoloration as well.

These are some of the most common signs of breast cancer that should not be ignored.