Breast Cancer Signs & Symptoms

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Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the U.S., aside from skin cancer. It also can occur in men, though at a much less frequent rate.Breast cancer doesn’t have early signs or symptoms, which is why screening mammograms are so important.

Breast Cancer Signs & Symptoms

Like other types of cancer, the earlier breast cancer is caught, the better — before symptoms present. Still, it’s important to know what to watch out for in case concerning signs are noticed.

Breast cancer symptoms include:

 

  • Lumps, hard knots or thickening inside the breast or underarm
  • Changes in breast size or shape
  • Skin dimpling or puckering
  • An itchy, scaly nipple sore or rash
  • Nipple or breast inversion or retraction
  • Sudden nipple discharge
  • Breast swelling, warmth, redness or darkening
  • New pain in one spot that does not go away

 

While there can be variations in symptoms depending on the type of breast cancer, many of the common signs and symptoms — changes in size or shape, nipple changes and breast lumps — are present across the different types. One exception is inflammatory breast cancer, which causes unique symptoms. Rather than a breast lump, inflammatory breast cancer is primarily characterized by swelling and redness on the skin of the breast.

When to See a Doctor About Breast Cancer Symptoms

If you notice a breast lump or other signs and symptoms of breast cancer, don’t delay being evaluated.

Early detection of breast cancer can lead to less aggressive treatment and better outcomes. For example, smaller tumors detected at earlier stages can sometimes be treated with a lumpectomy and radiation therapy may not be needed. Additionally, the earlier the stage, the less likely the cancer may come back after treatment.

How to Detect Breast Cancer

You can improve your chances of catching breast cancer early by performing regular breast self-examinations, and a clinical breast exam should be part of your annual well-woman checkup with your doctor.

Additionally, getting an annual mammogram — beginning at age 40 for women of average risk — is vital since it helps catch breast cancer before it can be felt. If your breast cancer risk is high, you may need to be screened for breast cancer earlier than age 40.

If you feel or see something unusual, be sure to consult your doctor. One or more of the following tests may be used to help rule out or diagnose breast cancer:

 

  • Physical exam
  • Imaging tests, such as a mammogram, ultrasound and/or MRI
  • Breast biopsy

 

Common Risk Factors of Breast Cancer

While the exact cause of breast cancer isn’t fully understood, several factors are associated with an increased risk of developing it.

Breast cancer risk factors include:

 

  • Being female
  • Advancing age
  •  Personal history of previous breast cancer
  • Having a genetic mutation(s) linked to breast cancer, like BRCA1 and BRCA2
  • Strong family history of breast cancer or a condition linked to breast cancer
  • Starting your menstrual cycle before age 12 or experiencing menopause after age 55
  • Certain lifestyle factors, like being overweight, having a poor diet and physical inactivity
  • Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy
  • Never having been pregnant

 

Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop breast cancer, and having no risk factors does not mean you can't develop it. It is advisable to review your family medical history with your doctor and understand your risk for breast cancer.

FAQs About Breast Cancer Symptoms

What are the earliest signs of breast cancer

The early signs of breast cancer can vary among individuals, and oftentimes there aren’t any noticeable symptoms in the earliest stages. This is what makes getting an annual mammogram — starting at age 40 for women of average risk — so important. A screening mammogram can catch breast cancer before it can be felt as a lump or other signs develop. It’s also why you should discuss your breast cancer risk with your doctor. People who are high risk will need earlier and more frequent screening.

Can you have breast cancer with no symptoms?

Yes, it is possible to have breast cancer without experiencing any symptoms — especially in the early stages of the disease. This is why early detection methods, such as annual screening mammograms, are essential for identifying breast cancer early.

Do men experience the same breast cancer symptoms as women?

Breast cancer is far more common in women, but men can develop the disease. The anatomy of male and female breast tissue is similar, so the signs and symptoms of breast cancer in men are generally comparable — including a painless lump, thickening of skin on the chest and changes to the nipple.

However, due to the rarity of male breast cancer , awareness may be lower, and men may be less likely to recognize or report symptoms promptly.

Can itching be a symptom of breast cancer?

Itching is a less common breast cancer symptom, but it can be one. It may occur with inflammatory breast cancer, if metastatic breast cancer has spread to the skin, or with a condition called Paget’s disease of the nipple. There are many other (and more likely) potential causes of itchiness, though, including skin conditions and allergies.

While itching alone is unlikely to be a sign of breast cancer, any persistent or concerning symptoms should be discussed with a health care provider to rule out potential underlying causes and ensure appropriate management.

Are flat nipples a sign of breast cancer?

Flat or inverted nipples are relatively common and do not necessarily indicate any underlying health concerns. In many cases, they are present from birth or develop during puberty.

However, sudden changes in nipple appearance or texture, such as inversion or flattening, can occur in some cases of breast cancer. If you notice any new or unusual changes in your nipples or breasts, consult your doctor.

What are the signs that breast cancer has spread?

When breast cancer spreads from its original location in the breast to other parts of the body, it is referred to as metastatic breast cancer. The signs of this vary depending on where in the body the cancer has spread. For instance, bone metastasis symptoms include sudden bone pain and increased fractures, whereas lung metastasis symptoms include persistent coughing, shortness of breath and chest pain.

Why Choose Houston Methodist as Your Cancer Care Provider

Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center is where innovation meets personalized treatment — offering compassionate, expert cancer care. Our breast cancer specialists employ some of the most advanced, cutting-edge techniques in the country.

At Houston Methodist, you're not just a patient — you're part of a family united in the fight against breast cancer. You can trust our team to provide top-tier medical care and unwavering support every step of the way.