Doctors Reveal 5 Surprising Breast Cancer Symptoms You May Be Missing

When we think of breast cancer, common signs like lumps or nipple discharge often come to mind. However, breast cancer does not always present itself in an obvious way. Many women may not realize that there are subtle and unexpected symptoms that can be so important to recognize. Understanding and identifying these unexpected symptoms of breast cancer can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes.

To find out more, we spoke to medical professionals specializing in oncology. They help break down five lesser-known breast cancer symptoms you should watch out for and explain why early detection is important. .

What you need to know about breast cancer symptoms

First, let’s review the most common signs and symptoms of breast cancer. These include:

• A lump or thickening in the chest or armpit area

• Changes in breast size or shape

• Changes in the skin of the breast, such as darkening, “orange peel” skin, or redness

• Nipple discharge

All of these are important to be aware of, but they don’t tell the full story. “Breast cancer doesn’t always present itself as a lump that women can feel,” he explains Lauren Ramsey, MD, MBABreast Surgical Oncologist at John Peter Smith Hospital. “Subtle changes in breast contour can occur without a noticeable lump.”

5 unexpected symptoms of breast cancer

Next, Dr. Ramsay and Richard Chen, MD, MSmedical director of Personalis, share some often overlooked signs of breast cancer.

1. Swelling in the arm or collarbone area

“Swelling in the armpit or collarbone could also indicate lymph node involvement, even before a breast lump is detected,” says Dr. Chen. Although swelling may not be immediately noticeable, it’s important to pay attention to any persistent swelling or tenderness that doesn’t seem to go away.

2. Pain in the chest or chest area

Although many people assume that breast cancer does not cause pain, this is not always the case. Dr. Chen says that “pain is not associated with menstrual cycles” or physical activity can feel sharp, burning or even like a dull ache. “Breast cancer is usually painless, but if the pain is persistent, it should be evaluated,” adds Dr. Ramsey.

3. Persistent itching

Itchy skin is usually related to allergic reactions or eczemabut it is also one of the least common symptoms of breast cancer. This usually occurs in inflammatory breast cancer, which can cause itching, redness and swelling. If you notice itching that does not improve with topical treatments or seems to be isolated to one area of ​​the breast or armpitsit’s worth mentioning to your doctor.

4. Inexplicable fatigue

Fatigue is a symptom that many of us associate with the stress of our busy lives. But persistent, unexplained fatigue it can also be a sign of something more serious. In some cases, breast cancer can make you feel extremely tired, even when you get enough rest.

5. An inverted nipple

Another often-overlooked symptom is changes in the nipple, especially if the nipple is retracted or inverted, notes Dr. Ramsey. An inverted nipple could indicate a blockage in the ducts behind the nipple, possibly caused by a tumor. Nipple discharge, especially if it’s bloody, is another red flag that shouldn’t be ignored.

Distinguish the unexpected symptoms of breast cancer

Many of these unexpected breast cancer symptoms could easily be mistaken for less serious conditions. “Breast changes due to benign conditions often fluctuate with hormonal cycles and may resolve on their own,” Dr. Chen explains. However, “persistent changes that don’t correlate with your cycle, such as ongoing pain or changes in your skin or nipples, should be evaluated by a provider of medical care”.

Dr. Ramsay adds that “symptoms that come and go are more likely to be benign.”

If any of these symptoms last more than a few weeks or seem unusual to you, it’s important to see a health care provider. Monitoring the onset and consistency of these symptoms can provide valuable information for your doctor.

Breast cancer risk factors

Although anyone can develop breast cancer, certain factors can increase the risk. “Family history, age, hormonal factors, and lifestyle choices (such as alcohol consumption) can influence breast cancer risk,” says Dr. Chen. “Specific risk factors such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 genesare associated with breast cancer diagnoses at younger ages,” adds Dr. Ramsay.

Even without these risk factors, breast cancer can develop, which is why awareness and regular testing are so critical. “These risk factors not only increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer, but can also influence how symptoms appear, potentially earlier or with more aggressive features,” notes Dr. Chen.

Why early detection is crucial

“Early detection of breast cancer, especially recurrences, significantly improves outcomes by allowing for less invasive treatments and better survival rates,” says Dr. Chen. The earlier the disease is caught, the more treatment options are available and the better the chance of a full recovery.

That’s why it’s essential to stay proactive. “Women should follow the guidelines for screening mammograms starting at age 40, or earlier for those at higher risk,” advises Dr. Ramsey. “Women should also act monthly breast self-exams become familiar with what is normal for your breasts and report any changes to your doctor.”

Learn more about breast cancer:

Top 5 Foods to Help Reduce Breast Cancer Risk: Nutritious Ingredients Prevent Up to 50% of Cases

Dense Breast Tissue and Cancer Risk: What’s New FDA

Breast cancer in stage 0: symptoms, treatment of this early stage

This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your doctor before following any treatment plan.