What breast cancer symptoms should you look out for?
It is important to be aware of how your breasts normally look and feel, so that you can identify any unusual changes.
Breast changes that may indicate breast cancer include:
- A lump or thickening in the breast, especially if it is only in one breast
- Changes to the shape or size of the breast
- Changes to the shape of the nipple, such as crusting, sores or ulcers, redness or inversion (a nipple that turns in when it used to point out)
- Changes to the skin of the breast, such as dimpling (sometimes looking like an orange peel), a rash, scaly appearance, unusual redness or other colour changes
- Fluid leaking or discharge from the nipple that occurs without squeezing
- Persistent, unusual pain that doesn’t go away
- Swelling or discomfort in the armpit
Most breast changes are not caused by cancer, and the symptoms listed can be caused by other medical conditions. However, if you have noticed any breast cancer symptoms or changes in your breasts, you should see your doctor without delay so that the changes can be properly investigated.
Last updated: February 2026