1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Cancer

Breast Cancer Symptoms
Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

By Lisa Fayed, About.com

Updated: July 09, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the breast. It is estimated 1 in every 7 American women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. 220,000 American women will develop breast cancer this year.

Symptoms of breast cancer include:

  • Discharge from the nipple(clear or bloody)

  • Persistent tenderness of the breast

  • pain in the nipple

  • swelling or mass in the armpit (lymph nose)

  • inverted or scaly nipples

  • a lump that can be felt no matter how small

  • swelling of the breast
Sometimes there are no symptoms of breast cancer when its in the early stages. If you notice a lump, or are experiencing anything unusual, you must report them to your doctor as soon as possible. Performing a monthly self breast exam is the best way to notice any changes in your breasts.
Explore Cancer
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Cancer
  4. Women's Cancers
  5. Breast Cancer
  6. Symptoms Of Breast Cancer

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.