Breast Cancer Symptoms and Signs

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In its early stages, Breast Cancer usually has no symptoms. As a tumor develops, you may note the following signs:

A lump in the breast or underarm that persists after your menstrual cycle; often the first apparent symptom of Breast Cancer, breast lumps are painless, although some may cause a prickly sensation. Lumps are usually visible on a mammogram long before they can be seen or felt.
Swelling in the armpit.
Although lumps are usually painless, pain or tenderness in the breast can be a sign of Breast Cancer.
A noticeable flattening or indentation on the breast, which may indicate a tumor that cannot be seen or felt.
Any change in the size, contour, texture, or temperature of the breast; a reddish, pitted surface like the skin of an orange could be a sign of advanced Breast Cancer.
A change in the nipple, such as an indrawn or dimpled look, itching or burning sensation, or ulceration; scaling of the nipple is symptomatic of Paget's disease, a localized cancer.
Unusual discharge from the nipple that may be clear, bloody, or another color. It's usually caused by benign conditions but could be due to cancer in some cases.
A marble-like area under the skin.
An area that is distinctly different from any other area on either breast.

One or both breasts develop an abnormal lump or persistent pain, or look or feel abnormal. The cause often is something other than cancer but should be identified.
You have swollen lymph glands in your armpits. Any such swelling could be associated with cancer.