What Are the Signs That Breast Cancer Has Spread?
What Are the Signs That Breast Cancer Has Spread? Breast cancer is a health issue many women face every year. When it spreads, or metastasizes, it can cause different signs in the body. Knowing these signs helps with early care and better choices for your health journey.
Your body might show changes that feel new or odd to you. These could be things like pain, weight loss without trying, or feeling very tired often. It’s key to talk to a doctor if you see such changes.
Doctors can help find out if breast cancer has spread through tests and check-ups. If you think something is off with your health, getting help fast is smart. Your peace of mind and well-being are worth it.
Common Symptoms
When breast cancer spreads, it often sends clear signals. One of the first signs is a new lump or mass in your chest area. It might feel hard and have uneven edges. But some can be tender, soft, or rounded.
Swelling in or around your breast can also suggest metastasis. Even if no lump is felt, you should not ignore this sign. Your skin might look red or thick like an orange peel’s surface too.
Sometimes symptoms show up away from the breast as well. You could feel pain in your bones or see swelling on them. This could mean cancer has spread to these areas.
Other changes include feeling very tired all the time or losing weight without trying to diet. If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to a doctor soon for help and advice on what steps to take next.
Physical Changes
Breast cancer may cause changes that you can see and feel. Your skin might get dimples or start to look different. This is sometimes called ‘peau d’orange,’ like the texture of an orange peel.
A change in how your nipple looks could be a sign too. It could turn inward or have fluids coming out that are not breast milk, especially if it’s bloody. Watch for rashes around the nipple area as well.
The shape or size of your breast changing suddenly is another clue. One breast might look larger than usual or have an odd shape compared to before. These signs should prompt a doctor’s visit without delay.
Feeling swelling in certain parts of your body like neck or armpit can suggest spread as well. These lumps may not hurt, but they show where cancer cells might be growing outside the breasts.
Pain and Discomfort
Pain is a sign that breast cancer might have spread. It may not be just in the breast, but also where it has moved to. For example, if you feel a deep ache or sharp pain in your bones, this could mean the cancer has reached them.
Constant headaches or pressure can indicate something’s wrong too. If these pains don’t go away with usual treatments like rest or over-the-counter medicine, you should see a doctor. They will check if it’s linked to breast cancer spreading.
Discomfort from fluid build-up is another common symptom when metastasis occurs. This can lead to swelling or puffiness in different parts of the body such as the chest or abdomen area. Your skin might feel tight and full because of this extra fluid.
Other Warning Signs
Breast cancer may also lead to less common signs that are important. Sudden weight loss when not trying is one such sign. It might mean the cancer is affecting your body’s ability to use calories.
Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes, can occur too. This happens when breast cancer affects liver function. Your doctor will check for this during an exam if you have these symptoms.
Shortness of breath or a dry cough can be warning signs as well. When breast cancer spreads to lungs, it can cause fluid buildup and breathing issues. These symptoms should be checked by a healthcare professional right away.
If you notice changes in how your body works, like trouble with digestion or bowel movements, tell your doctor. These could signal that metastasis has impacted other internal organs besides just the breasts.
Finally, severe headaches or vision changes may indicate brain involvement from spread breast cancer cells. An immediate medical evaluation is crucial if you experience any neurological symptoms like these.
What Are the Signs That Breast Cancer Has Spread?: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How quickly can breast cancer spread to other parts of the body?
A: The rate at which breast cancer spreads varies. It depends on many factors, including the type and stage of cancer.
Q: Can men have signs of breast cancer spreading as well?
A: Yes, while less common, men can get breast cancer and should be aware of similar signs and symptoms.
Q: Are there specific tests to confirm if breast cancer has spread?
A: Yes, doctors may use scans like MRIs or CTs and sometimes biopsies to see if the cancer has metastasized.
The answers provided here are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice.
