Cancer occurs when changes in genes that regulate cell growth occur, called mutations. The mutations allow uncontrolled division and multiplication of the cells. Breast cancer is cancer that grows in breast cells. Cancer typically forms within either the lobules or the breast ducts. Lobules are the milk-producing glands, and ducts are the channels that carry milk from the glands into the nipple.

Cancer may also exist inside your breast in the fatty tissue or the fibrous connective tissue. Often the uncontrolled cancer cells invade other healthy breast tissue and can move under the arms to the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes are a critical means of transferring cancer cells to other parts of the body. It is hard to notice breast cancer signs, and they build over some time.

Symptoms

Breast cancer does not cause any symptoms in its early stages. A tumour may be very small to be felt in many cases, but an abnormality on a mammogram can still be seen. If cancer can be detected, the first symptom is usually a new lump in the breast, which was previously missing. Not all pieces are cancer, though. Each type of breast cancer sometimes can cause a wide range of symptoms. There are many common signs, but some may be distinct. Signs of breast cancer most common include:

1. Lump in breast or underarm- A lump in your chest or underarm that does not vanish after the time. This often reflects the first symptom of breast cancer. Breast cancer-related lumps are typically painless, although some may cause a prickly feeling. Lumps are usually visible on a mammogram well before they can be seen or perceived.
2. Swelling in the axis, collarbone, or breast– This may cause breast cancer to spread to lymph nodes in this area. The swelling can come before you feel a lump, so if you find it let your doctor know. Breast swelling may signal an aggressive type of cancer called inflammatory breast cancer.
3. Discharge from the nipple - A person may observe discharge from the nipple, which may be thin or thick and may range from clear to milky to yellow, green, or red. A milky discharge from the nipples is normal for people who are breastfeeding, but it is better to see a doctor about any other release from the nipples. Although most nipple discharges are noncancerous, in some people it can mean breast cancer
4. Breast alterations- You may notice a difference in your breast size, contour, texture, or temperature. A reddish, pitted surface like an orange's skin can be a sign of advanced breast cancer.
5. Breast pain or tenderness - Although lumps are usually painless, pain or tenderness may be a sign of breast cancer

It doesn't necessarily mean you any breast cancer if you have any of these signs. Either way, it is better to consult a doctor if you have any queries. There are a lot of options available to treat breast cancer based on breast cancer treatment cost in India.