Table of Contents
Symptoms of Stage 3 Breast Cancer: What You Need to Know
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and this is also true for India, where more than 5 lakh women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year.
The most common symptom of breast cancer, which occurs in roughly 80–90% of cases, is what we call a breast lump, meaning the presence of a lump in the breast. Breast lumps can occur at any age, so women should never ignore them and must get them checked.
In the remaining 10–15% of cases, symptoms may include nipple retraction, discharge from the nipple, changes in the size or shape of the breast, swelling in the armpit, or a lump in the armpit or the lower part of the neck.
In this article, we’ll explain the symptoms of stage 3 breast cancer in simple, easy-to-understand terms, so you know what to watch out for.
1. What Is Stage 3 Breast Cancer?
Stage 3 breast cancer means the cancer has grown larger and spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes. It’s divided into three types:
1. Stage 3A: The tumor may be large (over 5 cm) and may have spread to up to 9 nearby lymph nodes.
2. Stage 3B: The cancer has spread to the chest wall or skin, causing swelling or sores. Lymph nodes may also be involved.
3. Stage 3C: Cancer is found in 10 or more lymph nodes, or it has reached nodes near the collarbone or under the arm.
Understanding these categories can help you see how symptoms may vary depending on how far the cancer has spread.
2. Common Symptoms of Stage 3 Breast Cancer
Here are the most common symptoms to look out for:
1. Changes in Breast Size or Shape
• One breast may look bigger or swollen compared to the other.
• The breast size may appear slightly different compared to before.
• These changes happen because the tumor is growing or fluid is building up in the area.
2. A Lump in the Breast or Armpit
• You might feel a hard lump in your breast. At this stage, the lump may be large and fixed in place.
• Lumps may also appear in the armpit or near the collarbone because the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
3. Skin Changes on the Breast
• Redness or Rash: The skin appears red or swollen.
• Dimpling: The skin might have small dents or look like the surface of an orange peel.
• Sores or Ulcers: Open wounds or sores may develop on the breast.
• Thickened Skin: Some areas of the breast may feel thicker or harder than usual. This should not be ignored.
These changes occur when cancer affects the lymphatic system or invades the skin.
4. Nipple Changes
• The nipple might turn inward or sink into the breast (called nipple retraction).
• There may be unusual discharge from the nipple, such as clear fluid or blood.
• The skin around the nipple may become scaly, dry, or crusty.
These symptoms can be caused by cancer spreading to the milk ducts or nearby tissues.
5. Pain or Tenderness
• The affected breast may feel sore or tender.
• Pain can also be felt in the armpit or collarbone area, where lymph nodes are involved.
Pain happens when the tumor or swollen tissues press on nearby nerves.
6. Swelling in Nearby Areas
• Swelling can occur in the armpit, collarbone, or even the arm on the same side as the affected breast.
• This swelling (called lymphedema) happens when cancer blocks the normal flow of fluid in the lymphatic system.
7. Breast Feels Warm or Sensitive
• The affected breast may feel warmer to the touch than the other breast.
• It might also be more sensitive or tender.
This warmth and sensitivity are caused by inflammation in the breast.
8. General Symptoms
In addition to changes in the breast, you might also notice general symptoms like:
• Feeling extremely tired (fatigue).
• Losing weight without trying.
• Fever or frequent infections.
These symptoms happen because cancer can weaken your body’s immune system and drain its energy.These symptoms occur when cancer weakens the body’s immunity. If you notice these symptoms please visit your nearest doctor.
3.Why Do These Symptoms Happen?
The symptoms of stage 3 breast cancer occur because the cancer is growing and spreading. For example:
• Skin changes happen when cancer blocks the tiny lymph vessels in the breast.
• Swelling and lumps occur because the cancer spreads to nearby lymph nodes or tissues.
• Pain is caused by the tumor pressing on nerves and surrounding tissues.
Understanding why these symptoms happen can make it easier to recognize when something is wrong.
4. What Should You Do If You Notice Symptoms?
If you notice any unusual changes in your breast, follow these steps:
1. See a Doctor: Don’t ignore the symptoms. Schedule a visit with your doctor as soon as possible.
2. Share Details: Let your doctor know when the symptoms started and how they have changed over time.
3. Ask for Tests: Your doctor may recommend tests like a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy to confirm if it’s cancer.
5. Can Stage 3 Breast Cancer Be Treated?
Yes, stage 3 breast cancer can still be treated. The treatment usually includes:
• Surgery: Removing the tumor and affected lymph nodes.
• Chemotherapy: Using powerful drugs to shrink the tumor before or after surgery.
• Radiation Therapy: Targeting the cancer with high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
• Targeted Therapy: Medicines designed to attack specific types of cancer cells.
• Hormone Therapy: Blocking hormones like estrogen that fuel certain types of breast cancer.
With the right treatment plan, many people with stage 3 breast cancer live long and healthy lives.
Final Thought
Stage 3 breast cancer can cause noticeable changes in the breast, nipple, and nearby areas. If you or someone you know has these symptoms, don’t wait—early action can make a huge difference in treatment success.
Stay alert to changes in your body and seek medical advice if something feels off. The problems that arise can be detected at an early stage. Remember, knowledge and quick action can save lives.
For more helpful health tips, check out The Glow Rooted—your trusted source for wellness and health information.