Serious Symptoms Of Breast Cancer

Nipple Shape Changes

Women with breast cancer may find that their nipple begins to point inwards rather than outwards, which is what it is supposed to do. This is typically because of scarring or inflammation of the breast tissue. When breast cancer is the cause of this inversion, the whole nipple is usually pulled in. Additionally, this will often occur in only one breast and not both of them.

The reason the nipple may become inverted in breast cancer is due to the tumor in the breast attacking the ducts located behind the nipple. It is also possible for the tumor to attack other parts of the breast and trigger other changes to the shape of the nipple. Inversion, however, seems to be the most common.

Uncover more information on what changes to the skin around the breast are symptoms of breast cancer next.

Skin Changes

Thickened skin on the breast is typically the result of mastitis, which is a common infection in the breast found in breastfeeding mothers. However, it is also possible for thickened breast skin to indicate breast cancer. Thus, patients need to be watchful for skin that feels like an orange peel on their breasts. Additionally, if women take antibiotics for this thickening skin but see no improvement, they must inquire about inflammatory breast cancer, since the antibiotics do help with mastitis.

Another change in the skin of the breast that is considered a potential symptom of breast cancer is skin puckering. This, it is crucial to note, can be quite subtle. Thus, women need to pay attention to the skin on their breasts. However, it is important to note that this skin puckering often means there is a tumor, which can result in a buildup of fluid in the breast. This can trigger other symptoms, and in the case of skin puckering, this is often swelling, itchiness, and redness.

Discover the common warning signs of a rare form of breast cancer next.