Because doctor's are now being able to diagnose breast cancer in its early stages today are large number of women are now surviving what use to be a deadly disease a few years back. But it is important that a woman knows exactly what the symptoms of breast cancer are in order that they can easily recognize that they may have this condition and therefore get it treated much earlier.

In most cases, the first symptom that a woman will notice is that they discover a lump in their breast. Although in some cases, this disease can be extremely deadly in most cases (9 out of 10 to be exact) the lump a woman finds is actually benign. Which means that they do not actually have cancer at all.

The most common reason for these lumps to form is that sacs of fluid (cysts) have grown in the breast or that some of the glandular tissue has become fibrous. This particular condition is commonly referred to by medical professionals as Fibroadenoma. Although any woman can suffer from these conditions they are far more likely to occur in women over the age of 35.

But if you notice some dramatic changes in the way your breasts feel or look then it is important that seek medical advice as soon as possible. The kinds changes we are talking about which may well be caused by the development of breast cancer are as follows:-

1. A lump has appeared or there is a thickening to a part of the breast that was not there previously. The size or shape of the breast has changed or there is now dimpling (similar in look to an orange skin) to the breast skin.

2. If you notice at any time the shape of your nipple has become to change or it does something completely out of character. It becomes to turn in or actually sinks back into the breast then this may be a sign of something serious. Plus if you begin to notice a blood colored discharge from this part of your breast it is essential you seek medical advice as soon as you can.

3. Another symptom of you possibly suffering from breast cancer is that there has a rash begun to appear on either the nipple or the area surrounding it.

4. Finally if you choose to carry out a self-examination of your breasts and discover any kind of lump on the breast themselves or in your armpits then you need to seek medical assistance as you are able to.

But even though the above are all symptoms of breast cancer not always is this what is causing the condition, in fact there may be some other underlying medical condition for what is being caused. However, if at any time you are concerned about what you have found after carrying out a breast examination then you should make an appointment to see your doctor immediately.

The earlier you are able to identify the symptoms of breast cancer will help to increase your chances of the right diagnosis being provided. Which will then result in the right kind of treatment being provided and which will increase your chances of surviving what use to be a very deadly disease among women of all ages.