What are the symptoms of advanced breast cancer spread

Symptoms of advanced breast cancer that has spread include pain, jaundice, and coughing up blood. The specific symptoms vary depending on where the breast cancer has spread.

1. Symptoms of liver spread

In the early stages of breast cancer spreading to the liver, there may be no obvious symptoms because the lesions are small. But as the lesions grow, the patient may feel pain in the liver area. This pain is usually persistent and sometimes affects daily activities. In severe cases, jaundice may occur because liver function is affected, leading to increased bilirubin. Jaundice manifests as yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, and it is necessary to seek medical attention immediately.

2. Symptoms of lung spread

When breast cancer metastasizes to the lungs, there may be no obvious discomfort in the early stages. As the lesions increase or grow larger, they may irritate the pleura and cause a dry cough. Some patients may even have symptoms of coughing up blood. This often indicates that the disease is progressing and requires immediate medical intervention.

3. Symptoms of bone spread

Breast cancer may also spread to the bones, causing bone pain or pathological fractures. Bone pain is usually constant and may be worse at night. Unexplained fractures, especially those that occur with minimal stress, may be a sign that the cancer has spread.

4. Symptoms of brain spread

If cancer spreads to the brain, it may cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, and neurological symptoms such as blurred vision, difficulty speaking, or weakness. These symptoms may appear suddenly and affect your quality of life.

5. Systemic symptoms

Patients with advanced breast cancer may also experience systemic symptoms such as weight loss, loss of appetite, extreme fatigue, etc. These symptoms are usually due to the consumption of the body by cancer and the side effects of treatment.

Suggestions and responses

Knowing these symptoms and coping strategies can help patients and their families better face the challenges of the disease and improve their quality of life. If any symptoms change, be sure to seek medical attention immediately.