Symptoms of breast cancerThe first symptom of breast cancer that most women notice is a lump or an area of thickened tissue in their breast. Most lumps (90%) are not cancerous, but it is always best to have them checked by your doctor. See your GP if you notice any of the following: a lump or area of thickened tissue in either breast a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts discharge from either of your nipples (which may be streaked with blood) a lump or swelling in either of your armpits dimpling on the skin of your breasts a rash on or around your nipple a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast pain in either of your breasts or armpits that is not related to your period Be breast aware. Learn what your breasts look and feel like. Get to know what is normal for you. The appearance and feel of breasts can change at different times of the menstrual cycle. The milk-producing tissue in the breast becomes active in the days before a period starts. In some women, the breasts at this time feel tender and lumpy, especially in the upper-outer part of the breast near the armpits. After a hysterectomy (removal of the womb), the breasts usually show the same monthly changes until the time when your periods would have stopped naturally. After the menopause, activity in the milk-producing tissue stops. Normal breasts can feel soft, less firm and not lumpy. Check your breasts monthly.
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