It’s recommended that adult women perform breast self-checks monthly to look for lumps in their breast.

But there are a lot of other signs that indicate the presence of breast cancer. Here are 12 signs of breast cancer revealed.

1. The 1st of 12 Signs of Breast Cancer Revealed: Breast Pain

Breast pain is a common period symptom. But if your breast pain lingers past your period, it could be a sign of breast cancer.

2. Skin Dimpling

Medical experts say that breast cancer can cause the skin on the breast to adopt an “orange peel” texture.

This alone isn’t necessarily a sign of breast cancer, but it shouldn’t be ignored.

3. Swelling

The swelling of one breast or one spot on your breast could be an indication of infection or tumor growth.

Even if you can’t feel a distinct lump, it could still be cancerous.

4. Lumps

You should perform regular self-checks for lumps on your breasts.

Some cancerous lumps can even grow near the collarbone or underarm.

A mammogram or 3D breast ultrasound can help confirm the presence of lumps and diagnose certain breast cancers.

5. Scaly or Red Skin

Changes in skin texture could be signs of breast cancer. It can often cause your skin to become hard, scaly, red and irritated.

This sign is often mistaken for a rash or eczema. But if your rash is accompanied by other symptoms, you should consult with your doctor immediately.

6. Nipple Discharge

Nipple discharge is one of the first signs of infection, but it’s also an indication of late-stage breast cancer.

Discharge is often accompanied by breast pain, swelling, and tenderness.

7. Nipple retraction

The inverting or retraction of the nipple inwards can be another sign of breast cancer.

Some people are born with inverted nipples, some develop them during puberty. In most cases, the inversion reverses after time.

If you develop inverted nipples in adulthood you should speak with your physician.

8. Inversion of Other Parts of the Breast

If another part of your breast begins to turn inwards it could be an indication of tumor growth.

These inversions can be signs of other breast conditions that aren’t cancerous, but you should consult your doctor.

9. Vaginal Pain

Hormonal changes caused by breast cancer can cause changes and pain to female sex organs.

Vaginal pain is common in late-stage breast cancer.

10. Itchy Breasts

Itchiness and irritation are common among breast cancer victims.

However, as with the other symptoms, it’s not always indicative of breast cancer.

11. Change in Breast Color

Breast cancer can cause a darkening of the skin and breast tissue. You should notify your doctor if you notice any dark spots or color changes.

12. Visible Veins

Visible veins are another sign of breast cancer. Visible veins are usually accompanied by swelling of breasts and tenderness.

The More You Know

Now that you know the 12 signs of breast cancer revealed, you can be better prepared to catch it early.

While none of these signs alone necessarily mean you have breast cancer, you should always check with your doctor if you’re concerned.

Maintain your routine checks and schedules, and if you start to notice signs of breast cancer, see a physician immediately.