Signs And Symptoms Of Breast Cancer – Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting women worldwide. It is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease with devastating consequences if not diagnosed and treated early. That’s why it’s crucial to be aware of the Signs And Symptoms Of Breast Cancer. In this blog, we will explore the different Signs And Symptoms Of Breast Cancer and provide you with the information you need to take control of your health.
The signs and symptoms of breast cancer can depend on the stage and type. In some cases, there may be no noticeable symptoms at all. However, understanding the common signs and symptoms of breast cancer can increase your chances of detecting the disease early and you can look for medical attention.
What Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the breast tissue. It occurs when cells in the breast start to grow out of control, forming a mass or lump called a tumor. Breast cancer can occur in both women and men, but it is more common in women. Breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body if it is not detected and treated early.
It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and to undergo regular breast cancer tests as recommended by your healthcare provider. Treatment options for breast cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy.
The Top Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer Every Woman Should Be Aware Of
There are several risk factors associated with breast cancer, including age, family history, and genetics. That’s why it’s crucial to be aware of the warning signs and symptoms of breast cancer.
Here are some of the signs of breast cancer that you should not ignore:
- A lump or mass in the breast or underarm area
- Breast pain or tenderness
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Swelling or thickening of the breast tissue
- Skin irritation or dimpling
- Nipple discharge or a change in nipple appearance
- Redness or scaliness of the breast skin
- A lump or swelling in the lymph nodes under the arm.
Normal Breast Changes vs. Suspicious Changes: All You Need to Know
Breast changes are a normal part of a woman’s life, and can occur for various reasons, such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. However, it’s important to distinguish between normal breast changes and changes that may be a sign of breast cancer. Knowing the difference can help you detect suspicious changes in your breasts. Here’s all you need to know about normal breast changes vs. suspicious changes:
Normal Breast Changes:
- Breast swelling and tenderness during menstruation
- Breast changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Breasts feel lumpy or thick due to the presence of glandular and fibrous tissue
Suspicious Changes:
- A new lump or mass in the breast or underarm area
- Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast
- Nipple discharge, especially if it is bloody
- Changes in the skin of the breast, such as redness or dimpling
- Breast pain does not go away.
Different Types of Breast Cancer
Here are some of the main types of breast cancer:
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): DCIS is a non-invasive breast cancer that occurs in the milk ducts of the breast. It is considered a pre-cancerous condition because the cancer cells have not yet spread beyond the ducts.
Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC): IDC is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for about 80% of all cases. It starts in the milk ducts of the breast and then spreads to other parts of the breast tissue.
Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC): ILC is a type of breast cancer that starts in the milk-producing glands (lobules) of the breast. It can spread to other parts of the breast tissue and sometimes to other parts of the body.
Triple-negative breast cancer: It is a type of breast cancer that does not have receptors for estrogen, progesterone, or HER2. This type of breast cancer is typically more aggressive and has fewer treatment options.
Inflammatory breast cancer: IBC is a rare and aggressive type of breast cancer that can cause the breast to become red, swollen, and warm to the touch. It can also cause the skin to look thick and pitted, like an orange peel.
How is breast cancer treated?
Breast cancer treatment options depend on the type of breast cancer, the stage of the cancer, and other factors such as the patient’s overall health and personal preferences. Surgery is the most common treatment for breast cancer, and involves a lumpectomy to remove only the cancerous lump or a mastectomy to remove the entire breast. Radiation therapy is used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
Chemotherapy is also used to kill cancer cells throughout the body, while hormone therapy targets cancers that are hormone-sensitive. Targeted therapy uses drugs to specifically target and attack cancer cells. The best course of treatment for each patient will depend on the specifics of their case.
Conclusion
Breast cancer is a complex disease with different types and treatment options. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes.
