Different Types of Breast Cancer

Donna Nichols • October 7, 2024
A woman is examining her breast for signs of breast cancer.

Did you know there are MANY different types of breast cancer? I didn’t and still can’t get over how many there are. I will share them with you below and stress the importance of getting your annual mammogram!!


› Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)

This is a non-invasive breast cancer and starts inside the milk ducts. It’s not life-threatening but can lead to an invasive type of breast cancer later on. There are generally no signs or symptoms, but some may experience a discharge from the nipples or a lump in the breast.


           › Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

This is the most common type of breast cancer and invasive means cancer has spread to the breast tissues. If not treated, this cancer can spread to the lymph nodes and possibly to tother areas of the body. This too may not show any signs or symptoms and usually first shows up in a mammogram which is why regular screening is so important.


           › Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

This is the second most common type of breast cancer and begins in the milk-carrying ducts and spreads beyond. Sometimes, the first sign of ILC is a hardening in the breast that can be felt, or the nipple may turn inward.


           › Inflammatory Breast Cancer

This is a rare and very aggressive form of breast cancer. It starts with reddening and swelling of the breast and can grow and spread quickly, worsening in a few hours to a few days. The breasts swell and become inflamed because the cancer cells clog the vessels that carry lymph.


           › Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS)

This is not a true breast cancer and is usually diagnosed before menopause age. There are no signs or symptoms and is found only when the breast is biopsied for some other reason.


           › Male Breast Cancer

This is very rare but can happen because men have breast tissue which are usually just mounds of fat. Men can develop breast cancer from certain types of medications they take. The symptoms are the same as they are for women.


           › Triple Negative Breast Cancer

This type of breast cancer is not caused by hormones, but by a specific gene which means it is hereditary. This cancer does not respond well to medications and is very aggressive, but there are therapies to treat it.


           › Paget’s Disease of the Nipple

This is a rare form where the cancer cells collect around the nipple. Paget’s disease causes the nipple to become red, sore, flaky, and scaly. There can also be itching, burning, pain, and swelling.


           › Phyllodes Tumors of the Breast

These are extremely rare and tend to develop in women in their 40’s. The most common symptom is a lump your doctor can feel when examining the breast. They tend to grow rapidly, are generally not painful, and can create a visible bulge as it pouches against the skin.


           › Recurrent Breast Cancer

This is a cancer that comes back in the same or opposite breast after some time. Sometimes a single cancer cell can survive radiation and chemo and is able to grow into a new tumor.


           › Metastatic Breast Cancer

This is the of cancer that has spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream and lymph nodes. Most women feel helpless when diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, but there are treatments that can control it for many years. Make sure you gather all the information needed to help you make a sound and well-informed decision about your situation.


As you can see, there are many types of breast cancers, and I didn’t cover all of them. To find out more, please visit breastcancer.org. Also, PLEASE schedule your mammogram TODAY and get checked regularly for breast cancer. Early detection is KEY!!!

Staying Active as the Weather Warms

By Donna Nichols • April 17, 2026
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Allergy Season Is Here: What Seniors Should Know

By Donna Nichols • April 2, 2026
April in Florida means sunshine, flowers, and… pollen. Lots of pollen. For many seniors, allergy season can bring sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and fatigue — symptoms that can be frustrating but manageable with awareness and simple habits. Here’s what older adults and caregivers should keep in mind as allergy season peaks. 1. Allergies Can Change Ov er Time Even if someone never had allergies before, they can develop later in life. The immune system shifts with age, and new sensitivities can appear. If symptoms show up suddenly each spring, allergies may be the reason. 2. Pollen Counts Are Highest in the Morning For seniors who enjoy morning walks or porch time, this can be a surprise. On high‑pollen days, shifting outdoor time to later in the afternoon can make a big difference. 3. Staying Hydrated Helps Ease Symptoms Water thins mucus, supports the immune system, and helps the body flush irritants. Seniors often drink less than they realize, so gentle reminders — a water bottle nearby, herbal tea, flavored water — can help. 4. Keep the Indoors as Allergen‑Free as Possible A few simple habits go a long way: • Keep windows closed on high‑pollen days • Change air filters regularly • Remove shoes at the door • Shower or change clothes after being outside These small steps help reduce the amount of pollen that sneaks indoors. 5. Pay Attention to New or Worsening Symptoms If allergy symptoms feel different than usual, last longer than expected, or interfere with daily life, it’s a good time to check in with a healthcare provider. Sometimes what looks like allergies can be something else entirely. A Breath of Fresh (and Cleaner) Air Allergies may be part of spring, but they don’t have to steal the joy of the season. With a little awareness and a few simple habits, seniors can stay comfortable, active, and able to enjoy everything April has to offer.

Why Are Seniors Always So Cold?

By Donna Nichols • March 9, 2026
If you’ve ever walked into a room full of older adults and noticed the sweaters, shawls, and space heaters humming in the corner, you’re not imagining it — many seniors really do feel colder than everyone else. And it’s not just a quirk. There are real, physical reasons behind it, and understanding them can make daily life a lot more comfortable. 1. Our Internal Thermostat Changes Over Time As we age, the body becomes less efficient at regulating temperature. The internal “thermostat” in the brain doesn’t respond as quickly to cold, so seniors may feel chilly even when the room is warm enough for others. 2. Less Muscle = Less Heat Muscle mass naturally decreases with age, and muscle is what helps generate body heat. With less of it, the body simply produces less warmth. Even active seniors may notice they get cold more easily than they used to. 3. Thinner Skin and Reduced Circulation Skin becomes thinner over time, offering less insulation. On top of that, circulation often slows, meaning warm blood takes longer to reach hands, feet, and other extremities. This is why fingers and toes are often the first to feel icy. 4. Medications Can Play a Role Many common medications — including those for blood pressure, thyroid issues, or depression — can affect how warm or cold someone feels. It’s not always the medication itself, but how it interacts with the body’s temperature signals. 5. Underlying Health Conditions Conditions like anemia, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or poor circulation can all contribute to feeling cold. Sometimes, persistent chilliness is the body’s way of asking for a check-in with a healthcare provider. 6. Hydration and Nutrition Matter More Than You Think Dehydration and low-calorie intake can both make the body feel colder. Seniors who don’t drink enough water or who eat lightly may notice they’re chilly more often. Simple Ways to Stay Warm and Comfortable • Layer up with breathable fabrics • Keep moving — even gentle stretching boosts circulation • Warm beverages throughout the day • Use blankets or heated throws safely • Check room drafts and adjust thermostat settings • Talk with a doctor if coldness is new or worsening A Warm Note to Close Feeling cold isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a natural part of aging. With a few small adjustments and a little awareness, seniors can stay cozy, comfortable, and confident all year long.