Breast Lumps and Pain: What Young Women Should Know

Q: Breast Lumps and Pain: What Young Women Should Know

Dear Xiao Yang： I'm not sure if it's related to the menstrual cycle, but sometimes before or during menstruation, there is a sensation of lumps, which is mostly caused by hormonal stimulation leading to breast tissue hyperplasia. <br>This usually occurs bilaterally, but sometimes

Hard lumps and swelling pain in the chest?

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I've been experiencing breast swelling before my period, and sometimes the pain at night affects my sleep.
I have a dent in my right nipple, but yesterday I felt a hard lump on the outer side of my right breast, which feels round.
The pain is primarily in that area.
I also found a hard lump on the outer side of my left breast, which feels firm.
Is this normal? Do I need to get it checked? I'm only 19 years old, so it shouldn't be a tumor, right? I eat very lightly, don't often stay up late, and I exercise regularly.

Xiao Yang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/09

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid

Dear Xiao Yang: I'm not sure if it's related to the menstrual cycle, but sometimes before or during menstruation, there is a sensation of lumps, which is mostly caused by hormonal stimulation leading to breast tissue hyperplasia.
This usually occurs bilaterally, but sometimes it can be unilateral.
You can recheck yourself about 3-5 days after your period, paying attention to any changes in size.
If you notice that it sometimes feels larger and sometimes smaller, just monitor it.
However, if it continues to increase in size, you should seek a clinical examination.

Reply Date: 2016/05/09

More Info

Breast lumps and pain can be concerning, especially for young women who may not be familiar with the changes their bodies undergo. It's important to understand that breast pain, or mastalgia, is a common experience among women, particularly in relation to their menstrual cycles. However, when it comes to the presence of lumps or persistent pain, it is crucial to seek medical advice.

1. Understanding Breast Pain and Lumps: Breast pain can be categorized into cyclical and non-cyclical types. Cyclical breast pain is often linked to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, typically occurring in the days leading up to menstruation. This type of pain is usually bilateral (affecting both breasts) and can be accompanied by swelling or tenderness. Non-cyclical breast pain, on the other hand, can arise from various causes, including trauma, infections, or benign conditions such as fibrocystic changes or fibroadenomas.

2. Lumps in the Breast: The discovery of a lump in the breast can be alarming, especially for a young woman like yourself. While it is true that breast cancer is less common in younger women, it is not impossible. Lumps can be benign, such as cysts or fibroadenomas, which are non-cancerous growths. However, any new lump, especially if it is hard, irregular, or associated with pain, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

3. When to Seek Medical Attention: Given your description of experiencing breast pain, swelling, and the presence of hard lumps, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. A clinical breast examination is essential, and depending on the findings, your doctor may recommend imaging studies such as a breast ultrasound or mammogram. These tests can help determine the nature of the lumps and rule out any serious conditions.

4. Lifestyle Factors: While maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, is beneficial for overall health, it does not eliminate the risk of breast conditions. Hormonal fluctuations, which can be influenced by stress, diet, and lifestyle, may still lead to breast pain and changes.

5. Breast Health Education: It is important for young women to be educated about breast health. Regular self-examinations can help you become familiar with the normal texture and appearance of your breasts, making it easier to notice any changes. Understanding what is normal for your body can empower you to seek help when something feels off.

6. Conclusion: In summary, while breast pain and lumps can often be benign, it is essential to take any new changes seriously. At 19, it is unlikely that you have breast cancer, but the presence of hard lumps and persistent pain warrants a professional evaluation. Do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for a thorough examination and peace of mind. Early detection and intervention are key in managing breast health effectively.

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