Women (and men, because men can get breast cancer, too) should conduct a self-examination of their breasts if they see, feel, or suspect any kind of abnormalities or irregularities. These include:

• Unusual tenderness of the nipple, with pores formed near the nipple (like those found in orange peels);
• Thickening of the area near the breasts or underarms, or the presence of a lump near the nipples or anywhere in or around the breast tissue;
• Unexplained shrinkage in the size of the breasts;
• Asymmetrical appearance of the breasts which might seem unusual;
• Nipples that appear slightly inverted in their orientation, compared to their normal appearance;
• The skin near the nipples or surrounding them, or an area around the breasts, appears red and patchy or scaly;
• Check for any kind of clear or bloody discharge from the nipples. Nipple discharge isn’t necessarily abnormal, even when a woman is not breastfeeding, but it should be checked by a physician. A man who notices nipple discharge should always have it evaluated, regardless of the circumstances.

Read about Breast Cancer Diagnosis.

Note: Breast Cancer News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.