The majority of breast cancer cases affect women over the age of 50, but it’s not unusual for younger women to also develop the disease. Here are 12 symptoms that are worth getting checked out.
The Know Your Lemons campaign highlighted 12 breast changes that warrant medical attention:
- Hard lump
- Thick area
- Dimple Nippe crust
- Red or warm
- New fluid
- Skin sores
- Bump
- Sunken nipple
- Growing vein
- New shape or size
- Orange peel skin, where the skin looks like a dimpled orange
Dr Corrine Ellsworth-Beaumont founded Know Your Lemons after losing both of her grandmothers to breast cancer, as well as a dear friend.
Nipple crust
“Scab-like red or white” crust around the nipple, not attributed to eczema or breastfeeding, needs to be investigated – and it may feel sore.
Red or warm
Swollen, red breasts may feel warm or hot to touch, and there may be a burning sensation.
This type of inflammation can also cause bruising of the skin, but may be caused by breastfeeding or eczema.
Either way, a visit to the GP is needed to get to the root of the problem.
Sunken nipple
Some women may have retracted nipples – it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s cancer, assured Know Your Lemons.
However, if the nipple is “sinking, flattening, or turning, it could be a sign of breast cancer”.
Growing vein
Considered rare, an enlarged or new vein might signal breast cancer if it’s not linked to weight gain or breastfeeding.