Breast cancer can have a variety of symptoms, but the first noticeable symptom is usually a lump or an area of thickened tissue in the breast. However, most breast lumps are not cancerous, but it is always best to have them checked by a doctor. Other symptoms of breast cancer include:

• A change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
• Discharge from either of your nipples (which may be streaked with blood)
• Swelling of all or part of the breast, even if no lump is felt
• Skin irritation or dimpling
• Breast or nipple pain
• Nipple retraction (turning inward)
• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast
• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area

It is important to note that having some of these symptoms or breast changes does not necessarily mean that a person has breast cancer. Many other factors go into a diagnosis, not just outward signs. However, if a person notices any of these symptoms, they should see a doctor right away for further evaluation.