There are several early warning signs of breast cancer that may indicate the need for a mammogram. There are various kinds of breast cancers, and some symptoms may apply only to a specific form of breast cancer. However, there are some other early warning signs of breast cancer that may be confused for a normal occurrence. Some of these include:

Changes in the skin on the breast
There are a variety of skin changes that occur on the skin due to breast cancer, but the early warning signs of breast cancer in this regard include swelling and redness on either or both breasts. These and other visible differences in the skin on the breast should not be ignored, even if the issues are not isolated in the chest area. Women who may have developed invasive breast cancer may also experience itching or irritated breasts.

Changes in the breast
Another early warning sign of breast cancer is any change in the appearance of either or both breasts. These changes in appearance are characterized by enlargement of the breasts or change in shapes. Monthly self-examinations of the breast are ideal for keeping an eye out for such changes. Breast changes are normal during or before the menstrual cycle, and therefore, these examinations should be done once the periods end when the hormone-related changes subside. Ideally, three to five days after the menstrual cycle is the best time for doing self-examination and should be done at the same time each month.

Pain in the breasts
This is one of the common signs of breast cancer that can go unnoticed as women may experience breast pain for other reasons. A pain in the breast that does not subside after the period ends, or in the next couple of days, can be considered an early sign. It is recommended to see a doctor if such pain persists. Some other reasons for breast pain include mastitis, certain medications, ill-fitted bras, and breast cysts among the others.

Discharge from the nipples
Not all nipple discharges are considered as a symptom of breast cancer. Any discharge from the nipple that is clear or maybe red, brown, or yellow should not be ignored. Discharges that are milky, green, or of any other colors are usually nothing to be alarmed about and may be indicators of any other benign issues. However, it is important to note that nipple discharge is normal in women who are lactating or are weaning.

Lumps
A lot of the symptoms mentioned above may occur even before a lump is felt. Some lumps are normal and may go away when the period ends. However, any new lump that does not go away even after the cycle ends should be shown to a doctor. Regular breast examinations can help in understanding one’s breast and look out for any such abnormal lumps.