Signs and Symptoms of Metastatic Breast Cancer

Metastasis in the bone may cause:

• Severe, progressive pain
• Swelling
• Bones that are more easily fractured or broken

Metastasis to the brain may cause:

• Persistent, progressively worsening headache or pressure to the head
• Vision disturbances
• Seizures
• Vomiting or nausea
• Behavioral changes or personality changes

Metastasis to the liver may cause:

• Jaundice
• Itchy skin or rash
• Abnormally high enzymes in the liver
• Abdominal pain, appetite loss, nausea, and vomiting

Metastasis to the lungs may cause:

• Chronic cough or inability to get a full breath
• Abnormal chest X-ray
• Chest pain
• Other symptoms of metastatic breast cancer can include fatigue, weight loss, and poor appetite, but it’s important to remember these can also be caused by medication or depression.

If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure you talk with your physician.  By sharing your symptoms, it could be important for getting the treatment you need.

The standard types of treatment for metastatic breast cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.  Discuss these treatments with your doctor to determine which is best for you.

If you have been diagnosed with early stage breast cancer and worry you may have a metastatic recurrence, there are prognostic tests that can help determine your risk of metastatic breast cancer.