• Changes in the surrounding skin

Some people naturally have inverted nipples, and this may be completely normal.

The concern is a new change, particularly when it occurs on one side and does not return to its usual appearance.

5. Unusual Nipple Discharge

Nipple discharge can have many causes and is not automatically a sign of cancer.

Hormonal changes, medications, pregnancy, breastfeeding, infections, and benign breast conditions can all cause discharge.

However, unexplained discharge—especially spontaneous discharge from one breast or discharge that contains blood—should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Do not repeatedly squeeze the nipple to check for discharge, because stimulation itself can sometimes produce or prolong discharge.

A doctor can determine whether further testing is appropriate.

6. Breast Pain Does Not Automatically Mean Cancer

The image shows a woman experiencing breast discomfort, but this is an important distinction:

Breast pain by itself is usually not a typical sign of breast cancer.

Breast pain can occur for many reasons, including hormonal fluctuations, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, certain medications, muscle strain, breast cysts, infections, or other benign conditions.

That does not mean persistent or unexplained pain should be ignored.

If pain continues, becomes severe, affects one specific area, or occurs alongside a lump, skin change, nipple change, or swelling, medical evaluation is appropriate.

The key is to look at the whole pattern of symptoms, rather than assuming that pain automatically means cancer.

7. Swelling Can Have Different Causes

Breast swelling may occur because of hormonal changes, pregnancy, breastfeeding, infection, injury, or other conditions.

However, persistent swelling without an obvious explanation should be evaluated.

Inflammatory breast cancer is an uncommon but potentially aggressive form of breast cancer that can cause rapid breast swelling, redness, warmth, skin thickening, and changes in breast appearance.

Because these symptoms can resemble an infection, particularly mastitis, it is important to seek medical attention if symptoms do not improve as expected.

8. Changes Under the Arm

The lymph nodes under the arm are part of the body's immune system.

A swollen lymph node can occur for many reasons, including infections.

However, a persistent lump or swelling in the armpit should be checked, especially if it occurs together with a breast lump or other breast changes.

Doctors may examine both the breast and the lymph nodes during an evaluation.

What Increases Breast Cancer Risk?

Breast cancer does not usually have one single cause.

Risk can be influenced by a combination of factors, including:

Age: Risk generally increases as people get older.

Family history: Having close relatives with breast or ovarian cancer can affect risk.