Breast cancer affects women worldwide. Proactive health monitoring can aid in early detection, which may open a wider range of treatment options and support better outcomes. Although October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, any month is an excellent time to think about breast health. A great first step is monitoring for signs and symptoms.
Breast cancer identification can begin at home by noticing symptoms, which are internal feelings or sensations within the body. Breast cancer symptoms might include:
Keep in mind that breast cancer is often painless, so you shouldn’t wait until you experience breast cancer pain symptoms to seek support. Many symptoms of breast cancer may not appear until later stages. When assessing these symptoms, remember that breast pain alone is not usually a symptom of breast cancer. It can come from hormonal shifts or benign cysts.
In addition to monitoring bodily sensations, you can look for signs, which are observable or measurable changes in the breasts. These breast cancer signs may include:
According to the American Cancer Society, many benign conditions can cause observable changes in the breasts, so these signs are not always indicative of cancer. Further medical evaluation can help in identifying the cause of any changes in your breasts.
Talk to your doctor if you notice signs and symptoms. A medical professional can diagnose the cause of any changes you’ve experienced and provide personalized guidance on any potential next steps.
Even if you’re not currently experiencing breast cancer signs or symptoms, you don’t have to wait to see a doctor. The American Cancer Society recommends preventive screenings. These screenings aid in early detection, help detect noninvasive cancers, and offer peace of mind.
At Starling Oncology, we’re committed to supporting patients on their health journeys. We can provide further support with identifying breast cancer signs and symptoms. We also offer specialized, patient-centric cancer care for women with breast cancer. Learn more about what we can do for you or request an appointment online for a screening, diagnostic support, or cancer treatment.
