Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women all over the world, and the leading reason behind the high mortality rates is late detection. Early detection and treatment can help win the war against this disease, so one should learn to recognize these early warning signs of breast cancer:

• Swelling under the arm:  The lymph nodes in the neck or under the arm can suddenly become hard in case of breast cancer, but the hardening can also be a result of infections. If one notices this symptom, they should immediately consult a doctor for an early assessment. A doctor may also prescribe certain tests to determine the exact cause of the condition.
• Lumps:  Lumps in the breasts are among the most common early warning signs of breast cancer, and one must regularly conduct self-examination to check for them. Also, these lumps are painless, so one can only find them through a physical examination, and they require medical attention as soon as possible. A doctor may perform certain tests to confirm whether the lumps are cancerous and suggest a suitable treatment method.
• Changes in breast shape:  During the early stages of breast cancer, the structure of the breast can go through some changes. Indentation or deformation of the affected breast can be an early sign, and a sudden occurrence of a dimple can also be a symptom. The symmetry of the breasts can also change, leading to a decrease or increase in size. If one notices any such changes, it’s best to get a medical opinion.
• Nipple irritation:  One of the prominent early warning signs of breast cancer is nipple irritation. If one notices any changes like dimples on the nipples, inverted nipples, itching, burning, ulceration, or red-colored rashes, they should consult a doctor.
• Discharges:  Nipple discharges are common during pregnancy and lactation periods in women, but sudden discharges be an early warning sign of breast cancer. If there is bloody or clear nipple discharge, one must visit a doctor for early tests and detection.
• Tenderness or pain:  Breast lumps do not usually cause any pain, but that does not mean there are zero chances of pain in the breasts during the early stages of breast cancer. If one experiences tenderness or pain in the breast, it could indicate breast cancer.
• Changes in texture:  The texture of the affected breast can change during the early stages of the disease, so if one notices redness of the skin or spots appearing on certain areas of the breast, they might be early signs of breast cancer.

One must remember that the early warning signs of breast cancer are not always conclusive and require further diagnosis, so it’s important to visit a doctor early for assessment.