Metastasis occurs when cancer cells break away from the original breast tumor and spread to other parts of the body. These cancer cells travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system (the network of lymph nodes and vessels that remove bacteria, viruses, and cellular waste). Metastatic breast cancer or stage 4 breast cancer can spread to any part of the body. Symptoms depend on how far the cancer has spread.
Bone: pain and fractures
Brain: headaches, seizures or dizziness
lungs: Difficulty breathing, wheezing, persistent coughing, or coughing up mucus or blood
Liver: jaundice or abdominal swelling
Other symptoms include
a new lump in the breast
stomach or midsection pain
loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting
sudden weight loss
persistent hiccups
Also read:From excessive fatigue to weight loss, these are the five major symptoms of cancer.
to be very tired
numbness or weakness of the breasts
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer and have symptoms of metastases. Then you should consult a specialist. A doctor can diagnose metastatic breast cancer through a variety of tests, including blood tests, scans, and biopsies. Regularly examining your breasts can help you identify such changes which may be a sign of breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Symptoms
lump or swelling in the breast
difference in breast size
nipple discharge
Changes in breast skin
nipple changes
excessive fatigue and weight loss
Disclaimer: Some information in news stories is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you should consult the relevant expert.
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