Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer in our country. The condition is more common in women and begins when cells in the milk-producing ducts mutate and spread. Like most cancers, treatment depends on the stage and consists of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. While a lump in the breast and nipple discharge are the telltale signs of breast cancer, here are some lesser-known symptoms to watch out for.

1. Unusually warm skin
Ailments like cancer are not associated with symptomatic inflammation or fevers. However, in rare breast cancer cases, itching, swelling, breast warmth, and redness occur. Inflammatory breast cancer signs are similar to those that surface in breast infections and may be hard to detect.

2. Change in breast size
Changes in breast size can occur due to multiple reasons, including menstruation phases, pregnancy, trauma, puberty, and hormonal changes. However, the red flag rises when the changes are asymmetrical, meaning they affect one breast only.

3. Retraction of nipples
Nipple retraction, also known as nipple inversion, is another unusual sign of breast cancer. When the nipples turn inwards or flat, it can be a concerning issue and must be taken seriously. Nipple inversion becomes a serious matter when it occurs suddenly and is unexplained. Other related signs include thickening of nipple tissue, non-milk discharge, and pain in the nipples.

4. Red spots
Rashes can appear due to different reasons, and most of them are harmless. However, when the rashes or blotches appear on the breasts and do not go away even after a week, they should be examined by a doctor immediately. Rashes are among the unusual signs of breast cancer and generally appear as a series of purple or red spots.

5. Change in skin texture
When breast cancer progresses, the breast tissue decreases, changing the breast’s texture. The result is dimpled skin that appears like an orange peel. The skin can also feel thicker than usual.

6. Recurring breast itchiness
An occasional itch in the breasts is common and can be due to different reasons. However, when the itch is persistent, it should not be ignored. Tingling and itchiness could indicate the start of cancer. It is usually due to the breaking down of fat cells in the breasts.

7. Breast pain post mesopause
Most women do not experience pain in the breast after menopause, but it could be a sign of cancer if they do. As per stats, only two to seven percent of women reported this symptom.

These unusual symptoms of breast cancer can help people become more aware of the disease. There are several ways to detect cancer in the body, and when diagnosed in time, the treatment can work well.