Symptoms

A woman whose breast cancer is in the early stages may not experience any symptoms. As the cancer progresses, however, she may notice some of the following changes in her body:

• A lump or thickening in or near the breast or underarm
• A change in the shape or size of the breast
• Nipple discharge
• Dimpling, puckering, or scaling on the breast, nipple or areola
• Swelling and redness of the breast
• Nipple changes such as turning in or flattening

Men may experience similar symptoms, but most often a hard lump is detected under the nipple and areola.

These conditions are not always related to breast cancer but need to be evaluated. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have concerns, contact your primary care provider or call the Swedish Cancer Institute at 206-215-6400 to speak with a member of our breast team.