Breast size or shape changing
Breast changing in size or shape may be a signal that milk ducts or the lobes deeper within the breast are swelling. This could be due to fibrocystic or regular monthly hormonal cycles. If the changes are not in step with regular periodical changes, consult a health professional and get an exam. Having a baseline mammogram can help you and your doctor keep track of changes with accuracy.
Breast and armpit lump or thickening
A lump in the breast tissue may indicate a problem in the duct or the lobes or it may a cyst. Some swelling or lumps in the breast tissue may be due to hormonal changes. But if a lump or thickening persists, whether it is in the breast or in the armpit area, it may be a cause for concern. Swelling in the armpit, where the lymph nodes are located, may indicate that the body is fighting an invasion. See your doctor or nurse practitioner for a screening. Here is an overview of lumps.
Nipple size or shape changing
If there is a problem with the milk ducts which are just below the surface of the nipple and areola or if a nipple retracts and does not easily return to its normal shape, see your doctor or a nurse practitioner for a manual exam. Having a diagnostic mammogram or ultrasound can help diagnose the trouble.
Unusual leaking from the nipple
Between ages 41 – 58, there may be a small bit of non-bloody leakage from the nipples of both breasts. If the fluid is leaking from only one nipple, is a new discharge, or is bloody, there are several tests that can be done to discover what is causing it. Ask your doctor for a professional opinion on your next steps.
Unusual pain in the breast or in the armpit
Know your cyclical pains, and note if breast pain occurs in tune with the monthly period, and in both breasts. While uncomfortable, if it is normal to you, it may not be worrisome. But if you have pain which occur off-cycle or in only one breast or armpit, get it checked out. Keeping a good record of your cycles will help you understand hormonal changes in your breasts, and also helps your doctor and nurse determine what may be happening in your body.
Changes of shape, color or texture of the nipple
One unusual type of breast cancer is called Paget’s disease, and starts out in the form of a rash. When caught and dealt with at an early stage, this is a very curable condition. If you observe dimples, puckers, or a rash on the skin of the nipple or the areola, and these symptoms persist, or do not respond well to treatment creams, check with your doctor to determine what action to take.
