What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

This content has been reviewed and approved by

William J. Gradishar, MD FACP
Director, Breast Medical Oncology, Professor of Medicine
Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine

In the early stages of breast cancer, you may not experience any obvious or painful symptoms. When you do experience symptoms, they will vary based on the size and location of the cancer in your breast.

The following are the most common symptoms of breast cancer. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. As the cancer grows, it can cause changes that women and men should watch for, such as:

• A lump or thickening (a mass, swelling, skin irritation, or distortion) in or near your breast or in the underarm area
• A change in the size or shape of your breast
• A change in the color or feel of the skin of your breast, your areola (the circle around your nipple), or your nipple (dimpled, puckered, or scaly)
• Your nipple has a discharge, has a sore, is turning inward, or is tender

Call your doctor or nurse if you notice any of these changes.