Pay attention to new changes in the skin, including:
- Dimpling or indentations
- Thickening
- Redness or unusual discoloration
- Swelling
- Skin that develops an appearance similar to an orange peel
These changes can have several causes, but persistent or unexplained changes should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
4. Changes in the Nipple
A nipple that suddenly becomes inverted, changes direction, or looks noticeably different from usual may deserve evaluation.
A new change is particularly important if it occurs on only one side and does not return to normal.
5. Unusual Nipple Discharge
Nipple discharge can occur for many reasons and is not automatically a sign of cancer.
However, new spontaneous discharge—particularly if it is bloody or occurs from only one breast—should be medically evaluated.
Don’t squeeze the nipple repeatedly to check for discharge, as this can itself cause or perpetuate discharge.
