If the world were perfect, breast cancer would give us some prior warning that it was emerging. We would see a red flag or hear an alarm bell. Unfortunately, the real world is not so thoughtful.

Early breast cancer presents no outward symptoms. There is no pain, and no warning. In fact, the only means of detected breast cancer in its preliminary stage is by finding a lump or an abnormality. This can be done by performing breast self-examination, or by way of a yearly mammogram.

Most lumps in breasts are not cancerous. But if you do find one, it is very important to have your doctor examine it as soon as possible.

The area above the collarbone, or under the arm can also reveal the presence of a bump. Especially if this bump persists for some time, have it examined. Other symptoms may accompany it, such as changes in your skin or surface area of the breast, or nipple discharge or inversion.

Although rarely a symptom of cancer, discharge from the breast is a common problem. There is greater concern, however, if the discharge is bloody, or occurs in only one breast. A doctor should assess any occurrence of breast discharge. It is also very common for nipples to become inverted; however if this is a sudden occurrence it should be discussed with your doctor.

Redness or swelling of the breast might indicate an infection in the breast tissue. Get prompt treatment for any type or cause of infection. If you notice swelling, redness, or strong pain in your armpit, breast, or under your shoulder, do not hesitate to see your doctor right away. One of the keys to success in treating breast cancer is early detection.

Sometime a change in skin, such as textural changes or puckering, can appear alongside breast cancer. Of course, many other diseases can also cause these effects, so it is valuable to eliminate the possibility of breast cancer by having an exam by a doctor.

Breast cancer can slowly develop over months or years. However, once it is clearly diagnosed, it is crucial to start treatment as soon as practicable. Breast cancer can metastasize and thus spread throughout the body, and the goal is to begin treatment before this has a chance to happen.

Some of the earliest signs of breast cancer can be detected by a mammogram test. Women over 40 should have this test done once per year. The test uses an electronic scanner to examine breast tissue. If something abnormal shows up, contact your physician to determine if it is something to worry about and seek treatment for.

In addition to a mammogram, manual examination and ultrasolography may also be used to detect abnormalities. A complete physical examination of the breast includes a visual inspection and palpitation, including the armpits and areas around the collarbone. Your healthcare provider may palpate for a lump or feel for a thickening in the skin. A biopsy, where a piece of the lump or tissue is removed, is the only definite method to test the cells and provide a positive diagnosis.

All women must be made aware of the most common breast cancer symptoms:

* A lump in the breast, above the collarbone or under the arm, that stays for longer than a week

* Discharge from a nipple

* Changes to the nipples, such as inversion

* Changes on the breast's skin surface

During your regular self-examinations, if you find any of these symptoms, don't take a chance, but see your doctor as soon as you can to determine if what you have found requires treatment.

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Mabel Dugmore is an author for a variety of well-known online magazines, on health plan and anti aging products topics. You can get a unique content version of this article.