Breast cancer is not commonly associated with breast pain, as breast lumps and visual changes in the breasts or nipples are the most common signs. Although some breast cancer patients may experience breast pain, it is not a typical disease symptom. Apart from breast cancer, pain in other parts of the body may be caused by breast cancer treatment and cancer that has spread from the breast. This article explores the causes and timing of breast cancer-related pain, common breast cancer symptoms, and other possible causes of breast pain.
Does breast cancer cause pain?
Breast pain, known as breast tenderness, is typically not a prevalent indicator of breast cancer.
If breast pain is associated with breast cancer:
- It occurs exclusively in one breast or nipple.
- It is localized to a specific region rather than being a generalized pain.
- There are no variations based on the menstrual cycle.
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Pain when cancer spreads to other parts of the body
When breast cancer spreads to other body parts, it is called metastatic breast cancer. Depending on where the cancer has spread, this can lead to pain in different areas.
Examples of this:
- Bone: When cancer cells spread to the bones, they often target the ribs, spine, pelvis, and long bones of the arms and legs. The resulting pain may seem like the discomfort of exercise or arthritis, but it doesn’t go away with rest and can even worsen. Additionally, the bones may become fragile and prone to fractures.
- Lungs: Pain in the affected lung may be associated with shortness of breath and other breathing problems.
- Liver: A malignant liver tumor can cause pain under the ribs, midsection, or near the right shoulder. Other symptoms include yellowing of the skin (jaundice) and dark urine.
- Brain: Headache is one of the signs of a malignant tumor in the brain. It can also affect vision, speech, and memory.
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Pain due to breast cancer treatments
Pain can sometimes be a side effect of breast cancer treatments such as:
- surgery
- radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Hormonal and targeted therapies
- Immunotherapy
Common signs of breast cancer
The most common sign of breast cancer is a lump or lump in the breast. The bow is usually solid and painless. Other symptoms of breast cancer are:
- Changes in the size and shape of the breast
- dimpling of the skin
- Redness, thickening, or crusting of the breast or nipple
- Pulling the nipple or turning inward
- nipple discharge
- Swelling or lumps on or near the breast, armpit, or collarbone
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What other breast conditions can cause pain?
It’s common for about two-thirds of women to go through breast pain at some point, typically during their childbearing years. If you’re currently experiencing unexplainable breast pain, scheduling an appointment with a doctor is recommended just to be safe.
hormonal changes
Breast pain in a cycle is linked to hormonal fluctuations during menstrual. This type of pain usually affects both breasts and results in swelling and sensitivity. The pain intensifies approximately two weeks before menstruation and begins to subside once menstruation starts. Hormonal fluctuations can also occur during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.
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Breastfeeding
Researchers’ findings in 2019 show that over 90% of breastfed women undergo discomfort. Breast engorgement can make the breasts feel firm and tense, and it’s common to experience soreness or cracks in the nipples. Seeking advice from a lactation consultant or a doctor can be beneficial if you are experiencing these symptoms.
mastitis;
Mastitis is a painful inflammation of the breast. Other symptoms include:
- redness
- Warm skin to the touch
- Generally feeling unwell
Since mastitis can involve an infection, seeking medical help for treatment is essential.
cysts;
If you notice redness, swelling, and warm skin in the breast area, it may indicate a breast abscess. This condition occurs when pus accumulates due to an infection. It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as an untreated infection can lead to severe complications. Please communicate with a doctor as soon as possible to receive proper treatment.
cysts;
It is common to have benign cysts in the breast, which may cause symptoms such as lumps or nipple discharge. You can consult a doctor to diagnose and determine if any treatment is necessary.
gynecomastia
Men may experience breast pain due to a condition called gynecomastia. This occurs when the breasts enlarge, often due to medication or hormonal shifts. While gynecomastia can be treated, there are cases where it may resolve on its own.
injury or surgery
You may have breast pain due to a recent injury or surgery in or near the chest.
pharmaceutical
Breast pain can be a side effect of some medications, such as:
- Oral contraceptives
- Hormone therapy
- mental factors
- Some cardiovascular medications
Pain referral
It’s important to note that breast pain can sometimes be referred pain, meaning the discomfort may originate from elsewhere, such as the chest wall, gallbladder, or stomach, but it may be felt in the breast.
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What are the recommendations for breast cancer screening?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force is updating their guidelines. Still, as of 2016, they recommend that women between 50 and 74, who have an average risk of breast cancer, receive screening mammography every two years.
For women between 40 and 49, the decision to undergo screening mammography should be based on an individual’s circumstances. Those with a higher-than-average risk may benefit from early screening.
American Cancer Society guidelines recommend:
- Women ages 40-44 can choose to start screening mammograms annually
- Women age 45 to 54 should have annual mammograms.
- Women age 55 or older should continue with yearly screening or switch to every two years
- Checkups should continue as long as you are healthy and can expect to live at least ten more years
If you have a higher risk of developing breast cancer, you may want to get screened earlier or later than recommended.
Breast cancer risk factors include:
- A personal history of cancer or benign breast disease
- Family history of breast cancer
- Carries certain genetic mutations
It is beneficial to be knowledgeable about your breasts’ natural shape and texture to notice any changes promptly. A practical method to achieve this is by conducting a breast self-examination.
Frequently asked questions about breast cancer pain
What is the incidence of painful breast cancer?
About 2-7% of breast cancer patients report pain as the primary symptom at onset.
Is the pain related to a specific type of breast cancer?
Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare form with unusual symptoms compared to other types. Unlike traditional breast cancer, there is typically no visible lump, but it may cause discomfort or pain.
Other symptoms include:
- swelling
- A large area of redness
- Thick, dimpled skin that looks like an orange peel
Is back pain a sign of breast cancer?
While back pain is not commonly linked to the initial stages of breast cancer, it can be a potential sign of metastatic breast cancer that has spread to the bones. It is important to note that back pain may stem from various other health conditions, such as arthritis or muscle strains.
What can I do about pain during breast cancer treatment?
It is essential to inform your oncology team to manage your pain. Keeping a pain diary can help note the location and duration of the pain. Your healthcare team may utilize medications, physical therapy, and relaxation techniques to manage your pain effectively.
In metastatic breast cancer cases, tumors can pressure nerves and organs. Surgery or radiotherapy may be recommended to remove or shrink the tumors to reduce pain.
away
Although breast pain is not joint, it can be a symptom of breast cancer. More commonly, breast lumps and visual changes in the breast or nipple are warning signs of breast cancer. If you experience pain in other areas of your body, it could be a sign that the cancer has spread. Additionally, breast cancer treatment may cause discomfort or pain.
Therefore, you must consult a doctor if you experience breast tenderness or any breast changes. Early detection and treatment are crucial because even benign breast disease can lead to complications, and breast cancer is easier to treat in the early stages.