The most common sign is a new lump or thickening in the breast or under the arm. But a lump is not the only sign, and some cancers cause no lump at all.
Signs to take seriously
- A new lump or hard nodule in the breast or armpit
- A change in breast size, shape or contour
- Skin changes: dimpling, puckering, redness or thickening
- Nipple changes: turning inward, crusting or tenderness
- Nipple discharge, especially if it is blood-tinged
- Persistent pain in one specific spot of the breast or nipple
Most of these signs turn out to be harmless. But a persistent change should always be checked by a doctor — it is the only way to be sure.