It is important to be aware of your breasts and regularly check them for any changes, especially after having had breast cancer. Although you may have regular follow up with mammograms and tests, it is important to be aware of what to look out for.
Some of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:
• A change in size or shape.
• A lump or area that feels thicker than the rest of the breast.
• A change in skin texture such as puckering or dimpling (like the skin of an orange).
• Redness or rash on the skin and/or around the nipple.
• Your nipple has become pulled in or looks different, for example changed its position or shape.
• Liquid that comes from the nipple without squeezing.
• Pain in your breast or your armpit that is there all or almost all of the time.
• A swelling in your armpit or around your collarbone.
Many symptoms of breast cancer, such as breast pain or a lump, may in fact be caused by normal breast changes, a benign (not cancer) breast condition or due to the treatment you have had for your cancer. However, if you notice a change, it’s important to see your GP as soon as you can.
Some people think that having breast cancer will cause other symptoms apart from a breast change, such as feeling tired, having less energy or weight loss, but this is not the case. If you notice a change, even if you feel well, it is important to visit your GP.
Checking your breasts
Whatever your age, size or shape, it is important to be breast aware and check your breasts regularly. This is especially important after having had breast cancer. Your breasts may look and feel different after treatment, so it is important to be familiar with what is your ‘new normal’. Knowing how your breasts look and feel will help you know what is normal for you. You will then be more confident about noticing any unusual changes that might be a symptom of breast cancer and reporting them to your GP.
What signs and symptoms am I looking for?
How do I check my breasts?
Everyone’s breasts look and feel different. Some people have lumpy breasts, or one breast larger than the other, or breasts that are different shapes. When you check your breasts, try to be aware of any changes that are different for you.
Look at and feel your breasts so you know what’s normal for you
Try to get used to looking at and feeling your breasts regularly – for instance, when you are in the bath or shower, using body lotion or getting dressed. You don’t need to feel your breasts in any special way.
Remember to check all parts of your breasts, your armpits and up to your collarbone.
Do this regularly to check for changes.
If you check them as part of your usual routine you will not need to worry that you are not doing it often enough. Decide what you are comfortable with and what suits you best.
Remember to check all parts of your breast, your armpits and up to your collarbone.
Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you notice a change.
If you notice a change in your breasts, ring your specialist team for advice and go and see your GP as soon as you can. Most breast changes are normal and may be due to a benign (not cancer) breast condition, but it’s important to find out what is causing the change.
Disclaimer: On this website you will find advice to help you manage some of the more common but milder symptoms and side effects of breast cancer surgery. Please ONLY use this advice if you are currently participating in the ePainQ research project, otherwise you must follow the advice given to you by your medical team.
Clicking on the links in the left-hand menu will take you to advice on looking after yourself during treatment. If after following the advice you don’t feel your symptoms are being successfully managed or relieved, or if you become more unwell, you should contact your hospital medical team immediately.