Yes, breast redness is something many people with breast cancer have experienced, and it's worth taking seriously. A MyBCTeam member shared, "I had a crazy rash before I found out I had cancer," and another recalled "a red, itchy rash for months under my breast where cancer was found."
Redness on the breast can have Show Full Answer
Yes, breast redness is something many people with breast cancer have experienced, and it's worth taking seriously. A MyBCTeam member shared, "I had a crazy rash before I found out I had cancer," and another recalled "a red, itchy rash for months under my breast where cancer was found."
Redness on the breast can have several causes, including:
- Radiation therapy — a very common side effect that can irritate the skin
- Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) — redness covering more than a third of the breast can be a symptom
- Post-surgery infection — spreading redness, warmth, or swelling after surgery needs prompt attention
- Skin conditions — like eczema or heat rash
It's important to contact your care team right away if the redness is accompanied by:
- Fever or warmth
- Swelling or pus
- Skin darkening or unusual texture (like an orange peel appearance)
- Pain or blisters
Treating a breast rash depends on the cause — options can range from prescription creams to addressing the underlying cancer treatment side effect.
Trust your gut — if something doesn't look or feel right, don't wait to reach out to your doctor.
September 13
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