The risk of cancer increases with age, and with menopause, the chances can be higher. Women that who menopause after the age of 55 have a greater risk of developing breast cancer because of longer exposure to estrogen. The symptoms of breast cancer in menopausal women are the same as those for women of any age. So, we’ve made a list of the top warning signs one should look out for.

1. Skin Texture
If one notices changes in the texture of their skin, then it can be an early warning sign of breast cancer. This is due to inflammation in skin cells, which makes the skin scaly around the nipples and areola. It appears as though the skin is extremely dry or sunburned. However, texture changes may also occur due to eczema or dermatitis.

2. Nipple Discharge
This is a critical symptom of breast cancer in menopausal women. Although it is common for breastfeeding women to have a milky discharge, any other discharge from the nipple area must be examined by a doctor immediately.

3. Pain and Swelling
Breast cancer can cause the breast area to swell, which can lead to painful symptoms. There may not be a lump, but the size of the breast might be different from one another. In some cases, the changes in skin cells can also cause a feeling of pain, discomfort, and soreness. One may also experience a painful burning sensation. Although breast cancer is usually painless, one must not ignore these signs and symptoms.

4. Changes in the Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are a collection of rounded immune system tissues that are responsible for filtering and trapping harmful cells. These include cancer cells and bacteria. Once cancer leaves the breast area, it first travels to the lymph nodes in the underarms on the same side as that of the affected breast. As a result, one may experience some form of swelling. Apart from these swollen lymph nodes, a person might also find them around their collarbones. They usually feel similar to small and firm lumps that are tender to touch.

5. Discoloration or Redness
Breast cancer can make the skin appear bruised or discolored, turning it into a shade of blue, red, or purple. If one has not recently experienced any trauma to the breast and still observe redness or discoloration, one must bring it to the doctor’s attention.

6. Nipple Retraction
Breast cancer may lead to inversion or reversing of the nipple or changes in its size. It is normal for the appearance of nipples to change during ovulation or the menstrual cycle. But if one is witness these changes despite being in menopause, they must notify the doctor about it.

If the doctor diagnoses cancer, the first step is to relieve symptoms. This is called supportive care. It often starts as soon as a diagnosis is made and goes on throughout the treatment.