Symptoms: What to Watch For

In its early stages, breast cancer often causes no symptoms at all. Even so, there are signs that should get your attention. None of them automatically means cancer, but each one is worth having checked out.

Watch for a new lump you can feel in the breast or armpit, for changes in shape or size, and for skin changes like redness, dimpling, or skin that looks like an orange peel. Other possible signs include a nipple that has newly turned inward, scaly or inflamed skin around the nipple, and discharge, especially when it is bloody or clear and comes from only one side.

Pain is rarely a sign of cancer and is usually tied to your cycle. If you notice something new that does not go away within one cycle, make an appointment with your gynecologist. [internal link: Benign changes in the breast]