Signs & symptoms
Knowing what is normal for your own breasts makes it much easier to notice when something changes. Most breast changes are not cancer, but any new or lasting change is worth getting checked promptly. Breast Cancer Now sums up breast awareness as TLC: Touch, Look, Check.
TLC: Touch, Look, Check
- Touch your breasts and notice whether anything feels new or unusual
- Look at them in the mirror for anything that has changed
- Check anything new or unusual with a doctor or health worker
Changes to look and feel for
See a clinician if you notice any of these in a breast, the upper chest, or the armpit:
- A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest, or armpit
- A change to the skin, such as puckering or dimpling
- A change in colour, with the breast looking darker, red, or inflamed
- A nipple that has become pulled in (inverted)
- A rash or crusting around the nipple
- Unusual liquid (discharge) from either nipple
- A change in the size or shape of the breast
What about pain?
Breast pain on its own is rarely a sign of breast cancer. But pain that is there all, or almost all, of the time should be checked by a clinician.
When to seek help
Do not wait for pain, because many early breast cancers cause none at all. If a change lasts more than a couple of weeks, get it checked. Free clinical screening is available at every Walk In Pink.
Early detection saves lives. Join us for a free clinical screening.
References: breastcancernow.org, nationalbreastcancer.org. This page is general information, not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you notice a change, see a clinician.