In the very earliest stages, breast cancer has no outward symptoms. Sometimes the earliest sign is a tiny lump, or mass, that’s only detectable on a mammogram. As the disease progresses, however, more noticeable changes might appear. These can vary widely – while a lump is the most common symptom, it’s by no means the only one.

Any of the following changes could be a warning sign of breast cancer:

• Bloody nipple discharge or unilateral discharge other than breast milk
• Dimpling, puckering, irritation or scaliness of the breast skin or nipple
• Lump in the breast or armpit area
• Nipple that turns inward, flattens out, pulls to one side or changes direction
• Pain or tenderness in the breast or nipple
• Swelling in all or part of the breast
• Thickening or redness of the breast skin

These symptoms may be signs of breast cancer in men as well as women.

If you notice a potential symptom of breast cancer, or if you’re concerned about any changes in the way one of your breasts looks or feels, please call your primary care provider or a breast care specialist.

While these symptoms don’t always indicate cancer and can sometimes be signs of something less serious, such as a cyst or an infection, it’s important to have a physician evaluate them right away. Don’t wait to see if they go away on their own.

Treating breast cancer successfully is much easier when it’s caught and treated early.

Yes, we encourage your family members and loved ones to be involved in your care and know as much about your treatment plan as possible.

A pathology report explains details like the type, size and stage of your cancer based on lab results. If you're feeling unsure about your pathology report, our team is here to help.

Treatment timelines vary depending on your diagnosis and the type and stage of your cancer.

Medical oncology and radiation treatments typically involve multiple treatment sessions over a period of days or weeks. Your care team reviews your treatment plan with you, as well as any options that may impact length, frequency and duration of treatment.

Some surgical procedures are done on an outpatient basis. More complex cases may require a hospital stay.

Following active treatment, you will see your physician periodically to monitor for any signs of recurrence.

An oncology nurse navigator is a nurse or registered clinician who personally guides you from diagnosis through survivorship. They are your advocate, here to provide support and reassurance tailored to your needs – whether that's occasional conversations or daily check-ins.

Your navigator can coordinate your appointments, speak directly with your primary care physician, provide support to lower your stress, talk to your loved ones and help you access all the resources that you need.

Yes, our support services at Providence include financial navigation to help ease your way through financial concerns and barriers.

Our staff can help you:

• Evaluate insurance health plans to ensure the right choices are made for your care
• Leverage available programs and services, such as co-pay assistance and patient assistance programs to help reduce financial barriers
• Optimize external assistance programs, such as patient financial support programs

Your oncology nurse navigator can refer you to a social worker, who can connect you with financial support as needed.