In its early stages breast cancer may have no obvious symptoms. There is usually no pain and there may not be an obvious lump. Even so, the most common sign of breast cancer for both men and women is a lump or thickening in the breast. Any pain or change in the breast that does not go away should be reported to a doctor right away. If the cancer has progressed to the point where it does cause pain or an obvious lump, the treatment outlook is less favorable. Thus, early detection is very important. Some common symptoms of breast cancer include:

• breast or nipple tenderness
• nipple discharge, often clear or bloody
• a lump or thickening in the breast or in the underarm area
• change in the size or shape of the breast
• a nipple that is turned slightly inward
• scaly, red, or swollen skin of the breast, areola, or nipple

Inflammatory breast cancer may present some additional symptoms including:

• one breast larger than the other
• red or pink skin
• swelling
• ridges or pitting of the skin that resembles the skin of an orange (peau d’ orange)
• rash (entire breast or small patches)
• skin hot to the touch
• pain and/or itchiness
• nipples that appear inverted or flattened
• swollen lymph nodes under the armpit or in the neck

Breasts change in size and feel for many reasons other than breast cancer. Small changes in breast anatomy occur during the monthly menstrual cycle, and pregnancy causes dramatic changes in breast size and feel as well as in nipple and areola coloration. Other things that can cause changes in breast tissue include cysts, infections, and injuries. You should see a doctor right away if any breast changes last more than a few weeks, get more pronounced over time, or begin to cause pain or discomfort.