Breast lumps and changes are often nothing to worry about.
Although the female breast was designed to provide milk, it can also cause a great deal of concern when breast lumps and other breast problems occur. According Web MD, lumps and other changes in the breast are usually nothing to cause concern. However, knowing the different breast problems you may encounter will help you and your medical provider diagnose and treat potential problems.
Cysts
Cysts are small sacs that form in the breast tissue and are filled with fluid. Generally, cysts are not cancerous. Depending on the particular cyst, it may be hard or soft, painful or painless, rubbery or smooth to the touch. All these factors depend on where the cyst is and how much fluid is inside the sac. Usually, if a cyst can be felt with your hand, it will move under your fingertips. Your menstrual period can affect the size and growth of some cysts.
Intraductal Papillomas
Intraductal papilloma is a clogged milk duct. The milk ducts are the small tube-like structures that transfer milk to the nipple. A blockage occurs when a small growth occurs inside the duct. These growths are not cancerous and can sometimes be seen on the surface, looking like a small wart. Single clogged ducts usually occur in women who are close to menopause while multiple clogged ducts usually happen in younger women. In general, no medical intervention is needed unless the symptoms persist or there is associated pain.
Nipple Discharge
Nipple discharge during pregnancy or while breast feeding is normal, and it is also normal for you to experience some discharge during your life when your nipple is stimulated. This usually occurs when you squeeze the nipple. The discharge can range in color, including clear, white, yellow or brown. What becomes a concern is if you are spontaneously discharging fluid or blood with no stimulation. There are number of possible causes, including a side effect of a medication, a benign tumor found in the pituitary gland, an underactive thyroid or a form of cancer.
Mastitis
Most commonly, mastitis happens when you are breast feeding; however, it can occur in older women when the milk ducts dilate. During either example, a bacterium enters the breast and an infection occurs. The breast becomes painful and you may experience a fever and other flu-like symptoms. You may also notice red streaks form on the breast or pus draining. They will not usually heal without treatment, so a course of antibiotics is usually prescribed.
Cancer
When you find a lump in your breast, your worst fear is probably breast cancer. Cancer is the result of a mutation of cell growth. According to the Breast Cancer Organization, the cancerous growth of cells usually starts in the glands that make milk or in the milk ducts. Depending on the stage of the cancer, the symptoms will vary. At the beginning there are generally no symptoms, but as it progresses, you may notice swelling and pain either in the breast or the nipple, skin changes and nipple discharge.
Tags: milk ducts, breast feeding, breast problems, clogged ducts, clogged ducts usually
