Breast cancer is common among women. According to the American Cancer Society, “it accounts for about 30% (or 1 in 3) of all new female cancers each year”. And many people think the first sign is always a lump. However, there are other signs that may appear before you ever feel a lump. Paying attention to these early clues can help you find breast cancer sooner, which often leads to better treatment options and outcomes. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should see a healthcare provider.

1. Nipple Changes

A small but important warning sign is any change in how your nipple looks. If your nipple usually points out but starts to pull inward, or if it looks flatter or even turned to the side, it could be a sign something is happening inside your breast. A growing tumor can pull on the tissue and cause the nipple to shift.

Another sign is a rash or crusty skin around the nipple. Sometimes, this rash looks like eczema and might come with redness or soreness. If this rash does not clear up with simple skincare or over-the-counter creams, it is wise to see a medical professional for a checkup.

2. Unusual Discharge

Nipple discharge that happens on its own—without pressing or squeezing—can be a signal of breast problems. It might be clear, bloody, yellowish, or even green. While this does not always mean cancer, any unexpected or repeated discharge should be checked. In some cases, infections or noncancerous growths can also cause discharge. A doctor can run tests to find out if it is cancer or another condition.

3. Breast or Nipple Pain

Many people believe breast cancer does not hurt, but it can cause pain in some cases. You might feel a sharp, prickly pain or a persistent ache that stays in one area instead of spreading through the whole breast.

Nipple pain can also be a clue. If your nipple feels tender, hurts when touched, or seems sensitive for a long time, you should talk to a healthcare provider. Hormone changes can cause breast or nipple pain, but if the pain does not go away or is in a single spot, it is worth getting an exam.

4. Skin Changes

Keep an eye on any changes in the skin on your breasts. Redness, scaling, or thickened areas are signs to watch. Sometimes the skin can look like an orange peel (a change called “peau d’orange”). This happens when fluid builds up under the skin. This fluid buildup might be linked to swelling or inflammation within the breast tissue.

Some women notice their breast feels warmer than usual or see that a patch of skin is darker than it used to be. Although these changes can happen due to infections or other causes, they can also be warning signs of breast cancer. If they last longer than normal or keep getting worse, see a medical professional.

5. Swelling in Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes are small glands that help your body fight infections. You can sometimes feel them in your armpit or near your collarbone. When these lymph nodes swell, it could be due to an infection, but it can also mean that breast cancer cells have spread there.

You might not always feel pain in a swollen lymph node. You could just notice a little bump or puffiness. If the swelling does not get smaller over time, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to find out what is causing it.

6. Changes in Breast Shape or Size

It is normal for one breast to be slightly larger than the other. But if you see a sudden or clear change in size or shape, it might be a warning sign. Look for dimpling or small dents in the skin, especially when you lift your arms or lean forward. Dimpling can happen if something inside the breast is pulling on the tissue. This effect sometimes shows up before you feel a lump.

Breast cancer can make the breast look uneven or out of its usual shape. That is why it helps to know how your breasts usually look so you can spot changes sooner.

Seeking Medical Advice

Finding breast cancer early can result in treatment success. If you spot any of the signs mentioned here, do not ignore them. A doctor might perform a clinical exam or recommend a mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI to get a closer look. In some cases, a biopsy is done to check for cancer cells.

Staying aware of your body is a helpful step. You can do this by doing regular self-exams at home and keeping up with routine doctor visits or mammograms if your doctor recommends them. Even though these signs can point to different conditions—some serious, some not—it is always best to have them checked by a professional.