1. Breast Lump or Thickening

• A painless, hard lump with irregular edges is most common.
• Some lumps may be soft, tender, or painful.
• Can be in the breast or armpit (axilla).

2. Changes in Breast Size or Shape

• Swelling of all or part of the breast
• Noticeable asymmetry (one breast suddenly looks different)

3. Skin Changes Over the Breast

• Dimpling (orange peel or “peau d’orange” appearance)
• Redness or darkening
• Thickening of the skin
• Scaliness or rash on the nipple or breast

4. Nipple Changes

• Nipple retraction (nipple turning inward)
• Change in nipple shape or position
• Persistent itching, crusting, or ulceration around the nipple (Paget’s disease of the nipple)

5. Nipple Discharge

Especially concerning if:

• Bloody or clear
• Spontaneous (without squeezing)
• From one breast only

6. Pain

• Breast or nipple pain that doesn’t go away (Note: many breast
  cancers are painless)

7. Swelling in or Near the Armpit

• May indicate involvement of lymph nodes.

8. Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue

• Occurs in more advanced stages.