Cancer in any form can be a deadly disease, quickly spreading throughout the human body. The more quickly symptoms are diagnosed, the more effective appropriate treatments are likely to be.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime and early detection is critical for survival - which is why it’s critical that all women be aware of possible breast cancer signs and symptoms.

Read on to learn more about associated symptoms and breast cancer signs, along with information on how to watch out for them.

Lump

Most instances of breast cancer are diagnosed after a woman discovers a lump in her breast. This is the most common method of detecting breast cancer and the clearest sign or symptom of the disease.

Most women find lumps during a routine Breast Self Exam (BSE). To learn how to give yourself a breast examination, the Komen website (an organization dedicated to supporting women with breast cancer) offers instructions online, komen.org.

Change in Breast Size, Shape or Texture

A drastic change in a breast’s skin texture, shape or overall size can be a clear indicator of breast cancer. Many breast cancer victims also see a dimpling or wrinkling of the skin.

Soreness and Skin Irritation

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare form of breast cancer, but it does occur in about 1% of women diagnosed with the disease. The symptoms typically present themselves through itchiness, swelling, soreness, redness and a heat that resonates throughout the breast.

Paget’s Disease of the Breast

One complex symptom of breast cancer is Paget’s disease - this is a general inflammation of the breast skin. Essentially, the skin around the nipple becomes dry, flaky, red and itchy - resembling eczema in many cases.

Weight Loss

Not all breast cancer patients experience a decreased appetite and subsequent weight loss, but many do. Cancer is a disease that can often affect the entire body, even if it’s localized. Often, patients’ diets are adversely affected.

Depression and Anxiety

Though not as thoroughly documented as other physical symptoms, many breast cancer patients report experiencing higher levels of stress, anxiety and depression even before they were diagnosed. While most doctors won’t make a positive determination on this evidence alone, it can be a helpful indicator.

Family History

If any of your immediate family members or several members of your extended family have been diagnosed with breast cancer, then you need to let your doctor know. You should also commit to monthly self breast exams and annual mammograms.

From Symptoms to Diagnosis

If you’re experiencing any or all the above symptoms, then you may want to consult with your doctor. Remember, the sooner breast cancer is detected, the better your long-term prognosis.

To keep an eye on potential lumps or other signs of breast cancer or signs of any other cancer, the American Cancer Society suggests women schedule a yearly mammogram and conduct a monthly breast exam.

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