When to See Your Physician

When to See Your Physician

At Northwestern Medicine, our breast health experts are with you on every stage of your journey.

Prevention and early detection of breast cancer are important. Women with breast cancer may experience breast changes, but many women do not have any signs or symptoms when diagnosed.

If you notice any of the following, discuss them with your physician:

• A hard, knot-like lump or a thickening in the breast or under the arm
• Change in the size or shape of the breast
• Nipple discharge that occurs without manipulation, is bloody or occurs in only one breast
• Physical changes, such as a nipple turned inward or a sore in the nipple area
• Skin irritation or changes, such as dimpling, scaliness or new creases
• Red, swollen breasts, with or without a rash, with dimpling resembling the skin of an orange
• Pain in the breast