Undiagnosed or untreated breast cancer can lead to various complications, which can range from non-serious to life-threatening. Non-serious complications may include persistent pain, breast lumps or changes, and discomfort. As the cancer progresses, more serious complications can arise. These may include the spread of cancer to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, causing swelling, infections, and skin changes. If left untreated for a long time, breast cancer can spread to other organs like the bones, liver, or lungs, leading to life-threatening complications. These can include severe pain, organ failure, difficulty breathing, and a decreased ability to perform daily activities. This is why, it’s important to know and remember how you can recognize this type of cancer.
Symptoms of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer can have different symptoms. One of the earliest signs is a lump or thickening in the breast or armpit. It can feel like a hard or firm mass within the breast tissue or under the armpit. It’s important to note that not all lumps are cancerous, and they can be caused by various factors like cysts or benign tumors.
Changes in the size or shape of the breast are also a common symptom. As breast cancer may cause the affected breast to change in size or shape. This can include swelling, enlargement, or shrinkage of the breast. One breast may become noticeably larger or smaller than the other. Additionally, there may be changes in the contour or symmetry of the breasts. Other symptoms include:
- Nipple changes: Such as nipple discharge or scaling.
- Breast or nipple pain: Unexplained pain in the breast or nipple area.
- Swelling: Swelling or redness on all or part of the breast.
- Skin changes: Dimpling, puckering, or resembling an orange peel texture.
- Skin changes: Itching, rash, or color changes.
- Nipple retraction: The nipple pulling inward or becoming inverted.
- Enlarged lymph nodes: Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or around the collarbone.
Stages of Breast Cancer
Cancer staging can be difficult to understand or explain. To make it more clear we’ve created an overview of the different stages of breast cancer, along with their common symptoms. Why is this important to know? Well, understanding the stages can help in determining the extent of cancer and planning appropriate treatment
Overview & Common Symptoms of each Stage
| Stage | Description | Common Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 0 | Also known as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), non-invasive cancer | No symptoms; detected through mammograms |
| Stage I | Early-stage cancer, localized to the breast | Small lump, breast pain, nipple changes |
| Stage II | Cancer that may have spread to nearby lymph nodes | Breast lump, nipple discharge, skin changes |
| Stage III | Locally advanced cancer, spread to nearby lymph nodes and tissues | Breast swelling, skin ulcers, dimpling |
| Stage IV | Advanced or metastatic cancer, spread to distant organs (e.g., lungs) | Bone pain, shortness of breath, fatigue |
Please note that these symptoms are general and can vary for each individual. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and evaluation if you experience any concerning symptoms or changes in your breasts. Continue reading on the next page and find out how breast cancer is diagnosed and treated.
