Stage 4 breast cancer, also known as metastatic breast cancer, is where the cancer has spread to other areas of your body. It can cause symptoms like breast lumps, swelling, and skin changes. Treatment options at this stage focus on quality of life choices.
Doctors typically categorize breast cancer by stages, numbered 0 to 4.
Stage 4 breast cancer, also called metastatic breast cancer, is considered the most advanced stage. By this stage, the cancer is no longer curable because it has spread beyond the breast and may be affecting vital organs, like the lungs or brain.
For people who get an initial diagnosis of stage 4 breast cancer, the following are the most common symptoms that will likely occur.
In the early stages of cancer, tumors are typically too small to be seen or felt. That’s why doctors advise mammograms and other types of cancer screening techniques. They can detect early signs of cancerous changes.
Although not all stage 4 cancer will include large tumors, many people will be able to see or feel a lump in their breast. It may exist under the armpit or somewhere else nearby. Individuals may also feel a general swelling around the breast or armpit areas.
Some types of breast cancer result in skin changes.
Paget’s disease of the breast is a type of cancer that occurs in the nipple area. It’s usually accompanied by tumors inside the breast. The skin may itch or tingle, look red, or feel thick. Some people experience dry, flaky skin.
Inflammatory breast cancer may result in changes to the skin. The cancer cells block lymph vessels, causing redness, swelling, and dimpled skin. Stage 4 breast cancer may develop these symptoms, especially if the tumor is large or involves the breast skin.
Nipple discharge can be a symptom of any stage of breast cancer. Any fluid that comes from the nipple, whether colored or clear, is considered nipple discharge. The fluid may be yellow and look like pus, or it may even look bloody.
The breast might look and feel fine in the early stages of breast cancer, even though there are cancer cells growing inside it.
In the later stages, people may experience swelling in the breast area and/or in the affected arm. This occurs when the lymph nodes under the arm are large and cancerous. This can block the normal flow of fluid and cause a backup of fluid or lymphedema.
Individuals may feel discomfort and pain as the cancer grows and spreads in the breast.
Cancer cells do not cause pain, but as they grow, they cause pressure or damage to surrounding tissue. A large tumor can grow into or invade the skin and cause painful sores or ulcers. It can also spread into the chest muscles and ribs, causing obvious pain.
Fatigue is the most commonly reported symptom in people with cancer and can often be a side effect of chemotherapy. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI),
During stage 4 cancer, fatigue may become more prevalent, making everyday life more difficult.
Stage 4 breast cancer can cause discomfort and pain that interrupts regular sleep.
Cancer can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Anxiety and lack of sleep can also upset the digestive system.
Eating a healthy diet can be more difficult as these symptoms occur, setting up a vicious cycle. Some people may avoid certain foods because of stomach upset, which means the digestive system may lack the fiber and nutrients it needs to function optimally.
Over time, those with cancer may
An overall difficulty in breathing, including tightness in the chest and difficulty taking deep breaths, may occur in stage 4 breast cancer patients. Sometimes, this means that the cancer has spread to the lungs and can be accompanied by a chronic or dry cough.
When cancer spreads to other areas in the body, it can cause specific symptoms depending on where it’s spread.
Common places for breast cancer to spread include:
- Bones: When cancer spreads to the bone it can cause pain and increase the risk of fractures. Pain may also be felt in areas like the hips, spine, and pelvis. Walking may become uncomfortable or painful.
- Lungs: Once cancer cells enter the lungs, they can cause shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and a chronic cough.
- Liver: It can take a while for symptoms to show up from cancer in the liver. In the later stages of the disease, it might cause symptoms like jaundice, fever, and edema.
- Brain: When cancer spreads to the brain, it can cause neurological symptoms. These can include:
If you’re concerned about the symptoms you’re experiencing, consider making an appointment with a doctor.
If you have already been diagnosed with breast cancer and are concerned about your symptoms, it’s important to seek medical support.
Even though cancer isn’t curable at this stage, it’s still possible to maintain a good quality of life with regular treatment and care. It’s important to speak with your care team about any new symptoms or discomfort you’re experiencing so they can help you manage it.
Stage 4 breast cancer symptoms are signs that the cancer has spread to other areas of your body. it may present as symptoms such as breast swelling, skin changes, and nipple discharge. You may also experience side effects from chemotherapy, such as fatigue and nausea.
By this stage, the cancer is no longer curable because it has spread beyond the breast and may be affecting vital organs, like the lungs or brain. Your care team can help you put together a treatment plan to maintain a good quality of life.
Living with stage 4 cancer can also make you feel anxious and even lonely. Connecting with people who understand what you’re going through can help.