More women die of breast cancer than any other cancer, and men, although in a distinct minority with barely one percent of the cases, are not immune. As the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women, breast cancer is a serious concern for many people. Each year, over 268,250 women in the United States will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer and almost 63,000 with in situ (non-invasive) breast cancer.
According to Cancer.net, a doctor-approved patient website, more women die from breast cancer than any other cancer, and men are not immune, with barely one percent of cases. A total of 42,260 people will die of breast cancer by the end of 2023, as reported by 2019 statistics. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the chances of treating it successfully. In this blog post, we want to help you stay informed by sharing seven detectable signs of breast cancer that will give you a head start.
As is the case with most cancers, the sooner it is detected the better the chances of vanquishing it. Breast cancer should not be allowed to linger for long, because time is on its side as it spreads through the lymph nodes from an ignominious start as a small tumor in the breast tissue.
The hard fact is that it can’t be treated if it isn’t diagnosed in the first place. You need a primary care service in East Orange, NJ, that can recognize the signs and give you the support you need. Be on the lookout for the following warning signs of breast cancer:
Breast or Chest Pain
Experiencing discomfort or pain in the breast or chest area, which occurs continuously, regularly, or frequently, should not be ignored. This could be an early sign of breast cancer, and it’s essential to call a doctor immediately. It’s common to start with a family physician who may refer you to a specialist. Breast pain associated with breast cancer is often caused by “seed-like” tumors or lumps.
Lump or Lumps in the Breast
You might be able to discover these lumps in a self-examination that should be performed as part of your weekly routine just to be safe. This will be confirmed by a doctor in a breast examination or mammogram. This is commonly regarded as the first warning sign, and pressing areas of the breast with your fingers may detect small rigid, hard and tender lumps that do not move under pressure. You may find these lumps in the armpit area just above the breasts, in or near the collarbone or surrounding the nipples. Lumps may be either malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous), which will be determined via testing.
Itchy, Inflamed and Tender breasts
Itchy breasts may be a skin condition, but they may also be a sign that the breasts are tender or inflamed, resulting in persistent scratching. In that event, you may want to see a doctor other than a dermatologist. Possible accompanying symptoms may include a discharge from the nipples when not breastfeeding, and a notable difference in the texture of the breast tissue.
Changing Shape or Appearance of Breast(s)
When cancer is present, breast tissue often changes or expands, resulting in differences in shape or size. Sometimes, this tissue growth pushes the breast out of the bra cup. Additionally, the nipples themselves may change in appearance, flattening, or inverting to a noticeable degree.
Nipples Less Sensitive or More Inflamed
Changes in the skin on your breasts may indicate the presence of breast cancer. If you notice any redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin, it’s important to consult a doctor right away. This is especially true if the skin changes are only on one breast.
Inflammation, Color Changes and Hotness
Inflammation of the breast, which may promote swelling or redness, is another sign closely related to some of the previous symptoms in the early stages of breast cancer. A purple coloration may also appear. There may be soreness or “hotness” in the underlying tissue in the breast, which may be provoked by tumors pushing against the tissue in the breast.
Stiffness, Pain in Upper Back, Neck, and Shoulder
Symptoms of breast cancer in women isn’t all about the breasts. There may be a deep and throbbing pain in the bones of the upper torso. This is another sign of the spreading cancer to the upper rib cage and spine. You could feel it in either shoulder, as well as the neck and shoulder.
Don’t Wait to Get a Professional Opinion
One of the primary reasons breast cancer remains such a high risk for women is not catching it early. An early diagnosis can make or break your prognosis and greatly improve you or a loved one’s chances of recovery. If you notice any of the above seven signs of breast cancer should be taken seriously. That means you should call the doctor immediately.
Dr. Alexander Salerno, through Salerno Medical Associates and the Nirvana Healthcare Network, has been one of the area’s leading experts in treating breast cancer. Since 2001, Dr. Alexander Salerno has led Salerno Medical Associates in community outreach in Orange, NJ, and adjacent urban communities on patient education, in various medical and behavioral health issues, including alcohol addiction. Contact our team and schedule your next appointment today.
