9. Skin Dimpling or Texture Changes
If breast skin begins to look puckered or resembles the surface of an orange peel (known as peau d’orange), take it seriously.
This occurs when cancer cells block lymphatic vessels beneath the skin, pulling it inward. It is often associated with invasive forms of breast cancer.
Stand with arms relaxed at your sides
Raise arms overhead and observe skin movement
Press hands on hips to tighten chest muscles
Gently pinch the skin to feel for tethering
New dimpling always warrants medical evaluation.
8. Persistent Itching, Redness, or Irritation
Itching that lasts weeks — especially when paired with redness, warmth, or swelling — isn’t always a skin issue.
This can signal inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), a rare but aggressive type that accounts for about 1–5% of cases. IBC often mimics infection or dermatitis, leading to dangerous delays.
Key differences from normal irritation:
7. Hard Lumps or Thickened Areas
A firm, irregular lump that feels fixed under the skin is a classic warning sign. Unlike benign cysts, cancerous lumps are often hard, immobile, and painless.
Cancer vs. benign lumps:
Shape: Irregular vs. smooth
Mobility: Fixed vs. movable
Pain: Usually painless vs. tender
Growth: Progressive vs. stable
Men should also be aware — male breast cancer often presents as a hard lump beneath the nipple.
6. Persistent Breast or Nipple Pain
Most breast pain is harmless, but persistent, localized pain that doesn’t fluctuate with your cycle deserves attention.
Pain patterns to monitor:
One-sided pain
Constant rather than cyclical
Deep or focal discomfort
Pain combined with a lump or skin change increases concern significantly.
5. Unexplained Swelling in the Breast or Armpit
Breast cancer doesn’t always form a noticeable lump. Sometimes it causes diffuse swelling of the breast or enlargement of lymph nodes under the arm.
This happens when tumors block lymph drainage.
Quick armpit check:
Raise one arm
Use the opposite hand to feel the armpit
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