Signs and Symptoms
Changes to your breasts are usually nothing to worry about, but wouldn't you like to be in a position to recognise any changes, and act fast?
Take care of yourself. Only you can do this! Monthly checks can save lives!
What to look and feel for.
Period Info: If you have periods, please be aware that your monthly check should happen a week after it’s finished. Breast tissue changes throughout the month due to hormones.
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Most lumps found are not anything to worry about, but if you do spot any unusual lumps or thickening of skin on the breast, please get this looked at by your doctor straight away. Get peace of mind.
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It’s really important to check your armpit as part of your self exam. This is where lymph nodes live - special glands that help filter out harmful substances and keep our bodies healthy.
Sometimes, if there’s a lump in this area, it can be a sign that something is going on, like a cold, or an infection - either way, always get it looked at even if you do suspect something normal is going on.
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Visit your healthcare provider if you notice any changes to your breast skin, including:
puckering
dimpling
rash
redness
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If you notice any swelling, your whole breast might look inflamed and feel sore. It might feel hard and the skin might look like orange peel. Book an appointment with your GP to get it looked at.
Read more here on the Cancer Research UK site
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If you notice a sudden change in the size, shape or appearance of your breast, see your GP straight away.
Lots of changes are pretty normal. Many people naturally have one bigger than the other, and they can change as you get older, but if you notice a sudden, unusual change, please book in with your GP ASAP. Get peace of mind.
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Let’s not forget your nipples. Does your nipple look like is pointing the wrong way or going inwards on itself? If it turns in or sinks into the boob, please book an appointment to see your GP.
Fluid: if there is fluid/liquid leaking from your nipple without you having to squeeze it, or you see a crusting or red rash, please visit your GP.
Note: Breastfeeding will cause skin conditions and irritations but best to get it checked out either way.
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Source: CoppaFeel
There is no special technique for checking your chest if you have implants, you just need to get to know your normal and check monthly.
If you have recently had implants, you will need to get used to your new normal. This is the case if you’ve had any surgery to your chest. It can take a while to get used to the changes and how your chest now looks and feels. You might have changes to sensitivity or new scar tissue, but the key is getting to know what’s normal for you, and to contact your GP if you have any concerns.
CoppaFeel info here
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Breast cancer in men is rare. The most common symptoms include a lump in the breast that is nearly always painless and changes in the nipple.
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Signs and symptoms are the same, whatever gender, but speak to your trusted GP for any specific questions, particularly if you’re on hormone treatment.
Find out information
Other brilliant resources:
Signs and Symptoms - Breast Cancer Now Website
What to look for - Coppafeel Website
Note: If you’re on a contraceptive pill or the mirena coil please check once a month on the same date (or close to) due to the above.
Many signs and symptoms can be the cause of other medical conditions.
Sources: Cancer Research UK and Coppafeel UK
How to check
Other websites you can refer to…
Coppafeel - raising awareness of breast cancer in 20-30 year olds
Breast Cancer UK - Lots of useful info, recipes, research
Breast Cancer NHS - A comprehensive resource of medical information
Cancer Research UK - the UK’s leading research organisation
Macmillan Cancer Support - UK charity
Breast Cancer Now - UK Research and support charity