A breast lump is the most common early symptom of breast cancer. Other symptoms include a change in the shape of the nipple or breast, nipple pain or discharge, and swelling, redness, or rash.

Although breast cancer generally shows no symptoms in its early stages, regular screening and timely detection are key to effective treatment and an improved outlook.

A breast lump is the most common presenting symptom. But for about 1 in 6 women with breast cancer, the broad spectrum of symptoms doesn’t include a lump.

This article explores the early signs and symptoms of breast cancer, as well as how it’s diagnosed and where to find support.

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Early on, a person may notice a change in their breast when they perform a monthly breast exam or when minor abnormal pain doesn’t seem to go away. Early signs and symptoms of breast cancer to look for include:

  • a new lump that doesn’t go away after your next period
  • swelling or a lump around the collarbone or under the arm
  • changes in the shape of the nipple
  • nipple discharge from one breast that’s clear, red, brown, or yellow
  • unexplained redness, swelling, skin irritation, itchiness, or rash on the breast
  • breast pain that doesn’t go away after your next period

A lump that’s hard with irregular edges is more likely to be cancerous.

Having one or more of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have breast cancer. Nipple discharge, for example, can also be caused by an infection.

See a doctor for a complete evaluation if you experience any of these signs and symptoms.

Signs vs. symptoms: Is there a difference?

A sign is an objective, visible indication of an illness. A rash, bruise, abnormality on a medical scan, or a high temperature, are all examples of signs that might indicate an illness.

A symptom is a person’s reported, subjective experience. Feeling feverish, having a headache, or a specific pain felt in the body, are examples of symptoms that people experience.

Other causes of breast pain and tenderness

If you’ve had a mastectomy or other surgery related to breast cancer, you might get lumps or bumps caused by scar tissue in the reconstructed breast. This isn’t cancer, but you should let your doctor know about them so they can be monitored.

Clinically known as mastalgia, breast pain can also be caused by the following:

We often associate pain with something wrong, so when people feel tenderness or pain in their breasts, they often think of breast cancer. But breast pain is rarely the first noticeable symptom of breast cancer. Several other factors can cause pain.

Is armpit pain a sign of breast cancer?

Pain in your armpit could be a symptom of cancer, but it’s unlikely if the pain in your armpit occurs by itself without other symptoms. Potential causes of pain in this area include swollen lymph nodes, muscle strain, or hormonal changes.

Read this article to find out what might be causing pain in your armpit or breast.

Regular self-checks can help you get to know how your breasts normally look and feel so you’ll recognize changes early on. Here’s what to look for:

  • a difference in the overall size, shape, or color of your breasts
  • dimpling or bulging of the skin
  • redness, soreness, rash, or swelling
  • nipple inversion
  • unusual discharge
  1. Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and arms on your hips. Visually inspect your breasts.
  2. Repeat with your arms raised.
  3. Lie down on your back to feel your breasts. First, use your right hand to check your left breast. Use the pads of your fingers and move in a circular motion to feel for lumps or other changes. Be sure to cover the entire breast, from the center of your chest to your armpit and from your abdomen to your collarbone.
  4. Repeat using your left hand to check your right breast.
  5. Repeat while standing or sitting. You might find it easier to do this in the shower.

Read this article to learn more about breast self-exams

“Normal” vs. “abnormal breast”

As you might suspect, there’s really no such thing as a “normal” breast. Everyone’s breasts are different. So, when we talk about normal, we mean normal for you. It’s about how your breasts usually look and feel and what it could mean when this changes.

It’s worth noting that it’s common to experience breast changes during ovulation. This may have to do with extra fluid retention, which can cause:

  • swelling
  • tenderness, soreness
  • pain
  • lumpines

These symptoms should resolve after you start your period.

When you visit a doctor with concerns about breast pain, tenderness, or a lump, there are common tests they might perform.

Physical examination

Your doctor will examine your breasts and the skin on your breasts, as well as check for nipple problems and discharge. They may also feel your breasts and armpits to look for lumps.

Medical history

Your doctor will ask you questions about your health history, including any medications you might be taking, as well as the medical history of immediate family members.

Because breast cancer can sometimes be related to your genes, it’s important to tell your doctor about any family history of breast cancer. Your doctor will also ask you about your symptoms, including when you first noticed them.

Mammogram

Your doctor may request a mammogram, which is an X-ray of the breast, to help distinguish between a benign and malignant mass.

Ultrasound

Ultrasonic sound waves can be used to produce an image of breast tissue.

MRI

Your doctor may suggest MRI in conjunction with other tests. This is another noninvasive imaging test used to examine breast tissue.

Biopsy

This involves removing a small amount of breast tissue to be used for testing. This is the only way to confirm a diagnosis of breast cancer.

Are breast lumps typically cancerous?

Although a lump in the breast is typically associated with breast cancer, most lumps aren’t cancerous. In fact, about 75% of breast biopsies come back with a diagnosis of benign breast disease.

Even though the majority of breast lumps are caused by less severe conditions, new, painless lumps are still the most common symptom of breast cancer.

As with any cancer, early detection and treatment are major factors in determining the outcome. Breast cancer is easily treated and usually curable when detected in the earliest stages.

The best way to fight breast cancer is early detection. Talk with a doctor about when you should start breast cancer screening.

If you’re worried that your breast pain or tenderness could be something serious, make an appointment with a doctor today. If you find a lump in your breast (even if your most recent mammogram was normal) see a doctor.

Finding support when living with breast cancer

Learning you have breast cancer can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. You might find it helpful to connect with others who have been through the same thing or are going through it right now.

Your oncologist or treatment center can probably point you toward local resources. There are many types of support groups, so it may take a little time to find one that’s a good fit. Here are a few organizations to get you started on your search.

For online community support and great content, check out Bezzy Breast Cancer. You can also access Bezzy BC via a convenient app on your phone. There, you can make connections and read personal stories, plus get info on topics like treatment, lifestyle, relationships, and so much more. Download the free app here.