Recognizing the signs of breast cancer is very important and can save your life. If the illness is discovered early, there is a high chance it is successfully treated and even cured.
The main sign of breast cancer for both men and women is a lump. However, most lumps are not malignant. Often, these lumps are not painful. Other symptoms of breast cancer include:
? Unexpected bloody or clear nipple discharge
? Inverted nipple
? A change in breast size or shape
? Indentation or flattening of the breast skin
? Reddened or pitted skin, similar to an orange peel

Non-cancerous Breast Conditions
There are several factors that can cause these symptoms other than breast cancer. In addition to the normal changes that take place during a menstrual cycle or pregnancy, there are also other frequent non-cancerous breast conditions, such as:
FIBROCYSTIC CHANGES
Fibrocystic changes can make your breast feel granular or ropy. This breast condition is extremely frequent, affecting at least half of all women. Fibrocystic changes are not usually a sign of breast cancer and don't increase the risk of developing breast cancer either. When the breast feels very lumpy, self-examining them can be quite difficult. However, being familiar with what is normal and what is a reason of concern can help you detect new lumps easier.
CYSTS
Cysts filled with fluid are also frequent in women between the ages of 35 and 50. Their size varies from tiny ones to the size of an egg. These cysts are usually not a sign of breast cancer either. Their size sometimes increases until the menstruation and they disappear completely afterwards. They are less common in women who no longer have a menstrual cycle.
FIBROADENOMAS
Fibroadenomas are benign tumors that are frequent in women during reproductive years. They are smooth and rubbery lumps with a clear shape and move under the skin when touched. Fibroadenomas are generally painless. They can change their size over time, becoming smaller or larger and sometimes disappearing completely. Though a physician can usually detect fibroadenomas through a clinical exam, a tissue sample may be necessary as well.

INFECTIONS
Mastitis or breast infections are also frequent in women who have just stopped breast-feeding, but can also develop in women who have not been breast-feeding. The breast skins can be reddened, lumpy and warm and the underarm lymph nodes may also swell. Some women also feel ill and get fever. Mastitis is not a sign of breast cancer either, but it does require treatment.
TRAUMa
Sometimes a blow or bruise to your breast can also cause a lump. However, this is not a sign of breast cancer and doesn't increase the risk of getting the disease either.
CALCIUM DEPOSITS
Calcium deposits can develop anywhere in your breast and appear on a mammogram also. Most women have several calcium deposits of different sizes. These microcalcifications are often caused by cellular debris, secretion from cells, inflammation, prior radiation or trauma. They are not caused by calcium supplements. Most calcium deposits are not a sign of breast cancer. However, some of them are precancerous or even cancer. Your physician will probably recommend further testing if any of them appears suspicious.
If you discover a lump through breast self-examination and your haven't gone through menopause yet, there is no need to panic. You can wait until the menstrual cycle ends to consult a doctor, as most lumps will disappear until then. However, if breast changes persist for longer than a month, go to a doctor and have a breast exam as soon as possible.