"What are the mid-stage symptoms of breast cancer?"

Breast Cancer Symptoms in the Intermediate Stage

Generally, the early symptoms of breast cancer are not prominent, but the intermediate stage symptoms are more representative. During the intermediate stage of breast cancer, patients typically exhibit corresponding symptoms, with breast changes, skin alterations, and lymph node enlargement being more common. Below are the intermediate stage symptoms of breast cancer.

1. Breast Pain

Breast pain rarely occurs in the early stages but becomes more likely during the intermediate stage. Pain is not a common symptom of breast tumors, whether benign or malignant, which are usually painless. Studies have shown that post-menopausal women with breast pain accompanied by glandular thickening have an increased incidence of breast cancer detection. Of course, when the tumor is accompanied by inflammation, there may be swelling or tenderness. If advanced tumors invade nerves or axillary lymph nodes enlarge, compressing or invading the brachial plexus, shoulder pain may occur.

2. Axillary Lymph Node Enlargement and Skin Changes

Breast cancer can also cause axillary lymph node enlargement in patients, which can be palpable. Among them, the most common site of lymphatic metastasis is the ipsilateral axillary lymph nodes. Skin changes caused by breast tumors are related to the tumor's location, depth, and degree of invasion, often including skin adherence, cutaneous varices, skin redness, and skin edema.

Therefore, the intermediate stage symptoms of breast cancer are generally more pronounced. Of course, symptoms may vary among patients. Nonetheless, breast cancer in the intermediate stage will manifest more pronounced symptoms, gradually inflicting greater harm on patients.