Red flag breast cancer symptoms as skin changes an early warning sign of disease

Changes to your skin on and round your chest could be an early warning sign of breast cancer, according to experts.

There are approximately 4,200 breast cancer diagnoses across Scotland every year with women making up the majority of patients. Breast cancer is the most common cancer for women in Scotland and accounts for 28 per cent of cases diagnosed in Scotland, according to the Scottish Public Health Observatory.

If you spot the signs of the disease early then this can increase the chance of treatment and a successful recovery, reports Liverpool Echo. There are a number of symptoms that can be spotted early including a lump of thickened skin appearing on the breast.

A change to the texture of the skin on your breast is also an early warning sign of the condition. It is a good idea to become aware of what is normal for your body so if things change you will be able to spot anything unusual.

Knowing the shape, size and texture of your breasts is important as well as attending routine breast screening appointments when invited. If you are worried about anything then speaking to your GP about your concerns is the smartest thing to do.

According to the NHS, you should seek medical attention if you notice “a change in the look or feel of your skin, such as puckering or dimpling, a rash or redness”, or a “rash (like eczema), crusting, scaly or itchy skin or redness on or around your nipple”.

Charity Cancer Research UK said: “The skin might look like orange peel or the texture might feel different. This can be caused by other breast conditions. But get your doctor to check out anything that is not normal for you.”

Red flag signs of breast cancer

Mature woman doing self breast exam at home.

According to the NHS website, you should speak with a medical professional if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• A new lump or area of thickened tissue in either breast that was not there before
• A change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
• A discharge of fluid from either of your nipples
• A lump or swelling in either of your armpits
• A change in the look or feel of your skin, such as puckering or dimpling, a rash or redness
• A rash (like eczema), crusting, scaly or itchy skin or redness on or around your nipple
• A change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast

It is crucial to understand that just because you have any of the above symptoms that doesn’t always mean that you have breast cancer. Most lumps are not cancer but are cysts or normal areas of lumpiness opposed to the presence of the disease.

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