Rarer Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Rarer Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Over the years, awareness of breast cancer has immensely improved. Almost all women are aware of the common signs and symptoms of this condition, such as breast lumps, inverted nipples, etc. However, there are some uncommon signs of breast cancer that must also be paid attention to. Here, we will talk about those lesser-known symptoms in women.

  • Leaking nipples
    After childbirth, several women may experience leaking nipples. Although this is not a surefire sign of breast cancer, yet in some cases, it may indicate serious problems. A few studies showed that women experiencing a whitish fluid discharge from their nipples had intraductal carcinoma, an early form of breast cancer.
  • Itchy breasts
    This is another one of the uncommon signs of breast cancer. Some women may experience persistent breast itchiness and discomfort. This may be an early warning sign of IBC, a type of breast cancer. Generally, tingling and itching occur when cancer begins to breakdown the fat in the breast cells. This causes the nerve endings to fire abnormally, manifesting symptoms of itching.
  • Dimpled skin
    As the disease progresses, the breast tissue decreases, resulting in changes in the breast’s texture. This creates a dimpled, orange-peel-like texture, typically with scaling. In the beginning, one may look at it as an allergic reaction to something. The inflammation on the skin may cause pores to appear bigger and more open.
  • Red spots or blotches
    Although many different things may cause rashes on the breast skin, it is best to get yourself checked immediately. With IBC, a rash on the breast area is quite common and may appear as small red or purple spots, much like that of an insect bite. In a few cases, there may be large patches of discoloration.
  • Breast puckering
    This primarily includes an indentation in the breast when you raise your arms. It tends to retract as you put your arms back down. This is another one of the uncommon signs of breast cancer that most women miss. However, puckering does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer. You must schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN to know more.
  • Painful swelling
    Painful and swollen breasts are mainly due to hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or PMS. But sometimes, they may also be linked to breast cancer. So, if any breast pain appears when you are not pregnant or breastfeeding, you must seek medical attention immediately.
  • Breasts look really veiny
    Being able to see a lot of veins on your breast surface depends on a lot of things, including subcutaneous fat, skin color, pregnancy, genetics, etc. But sometimes, the appearance of green or blue lines may also be an early warning sign of breast cancer. So, if you have never seen these veins before or if they have suddenly become darker and more prominent, you must feel alarmed.

These are some of the most uncommon signs of breast cancer that must be taken seriously. You must seek expert guidance immediately in case of any symptoms.