While most breast cancers start in the milk ducts and lobules, some spread to other parts of the body. These cancer cells spread by blood or lymph fluid. While most cancer cells die in this process, the presence of certain factors can allow the cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body. Once cancer cells have spread throughout the body, they are known as metastatic cancer. These cells may remain dormant for many years before they start to grow again.
A lump on a breast is another sign of breast cancer. This growth may feel thick and hard, or it may be an orange-peel-like shape or color. You should feel the breast in the other direction to make sure it’s a normal bump. A lump in one breast is not usually painful. If it doesn’t go away or if the lump becomes larger or less tender, it’s time to visit the doctor.
Biopsies are another way to diagnose the condition. A biopsy involves the removal of a piece of breast tissue and sending it to a pathology lab for analysis. The images will help determine whether the cancer is cancerous or not. A biopsy will also determine whether it’s a hormone-sensitive tumor. The treatment for breast cancer will depend on the type of cancer and its stage. If the symptoms are present, your healthcare provider will likely suggest a lumpectomy.
Other risk factors include family history of breast cancer, obesity, and hormone therapy. Taking hormone therapy after menopause can also increase your risk of breast cancer. Certain drugs, such as estrogen and progesterone, can increase your risk. And as mentioned above, breast cancer can affect women of all ages. There’s no sure way to prevent the onset of the disease, but healthy lifestyle choices and regular checkups can greatly reduce your risk.
Although these symptoms may sound concerning, these side effects are usually temporary and will go away on their own. Symptoms of lymphedema include swelling, heaviness, fullness, aching, and redness. Some people may also experience fever, redness, or pain. Symptoms should be reported to your doctor and monitored closely. Your doctor will determine if they are signs of lymphoedema. If there is any suspicious lumps, it’s best to see a doctor immediately.
Treatment for breast cancer depends on its stage and spread. If the tumor is small and can be separated from surrounding tissue, a lumpectomy may be recommended. Otherwise, a simple mastectomy (or partial mastectomy) involves the removal of the breast and lymph nodes in the armpit. Sometimes, hormone-blocking therapy is necessary to detect the spread of the cancer. If you have met criteria for surgery, your doctor may suggest radiation therapy.
