Breast and Nipple Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice

Areola issues, breast issues, nipple issues?

Hello doctor, I am sixteen years old.
Around February, I noticed a small bump near the areola of my right breast, close to the nipple.
It was itchy, like a mosquito bite, but not painful.
I didn't pay much attention to it, but after two or three weeks, it started to peel and gradually got bigger, becoming slightly swollen and darker in color, matching the color of the nipple.
However, the skin in that area remained smooth aside from the color change and swelling.
I began applying ointments, trying various treatments.
It seemed to improve, but the color remained dark and swollen, and there was no further peeling.
However, whenever my nipple was stimulated, the bump would swell and the skin would wrinkle.
I saw others mention that uneven skin on the breast could indicate a problem, so I am concerned if my situation is problematic.
Later, in mid-March, I got two mosquito bites on the same area, which were also painless and located near the areola.
There hasn't been much change since then.
I haven't worn a bra since the last incident, but my clothes still rubbed against it, so I applied a band-aid.
I noticed that the two bumps would ooze a little pus, but after two days, the pus seemed to have stopped.
As of now, there hasn't been any improvement.
What could be happening with my breast? Is it a disease, or even cancer? Should I wait for it to heal on its own? It has already been two to three months, and it still looks the same.
Is there something wrong, or could you recommend an ointment?
Additionally, in mid-March, I also experienced some itching and swelling on my left nipple, but I couldn't see any wounds, and it wasn't painful.
I initially thought it was due to not wearing a bra, so I applied a band-aid.
When I changed it, I noticed some pus on the band-aid, but I still couldn't find the wound, only knowing it was on the nipple.
Because my breast skin is very sensitive, when I removed the band-aid, the surrounding skin got damaged, resulting in a wound.
A couple of days ago, I discovered a blister on my nipple.
What could be causing this? I am very scared since both of my breasts have issues.
Am I suffering from a disease, or even cancer? Are these symptoms within a normal range? How should I handle this?
I have pressed on my breasts and didn't feel any noticeable movable lumps, but I read that if a wound doesn't heal for a long time, it could be a sign of a problem.
Is there a possibility that my breast conditions indicate a disease or even cancer? How should I proceed? Recently, I have been applying antiseptic alcohol and tea tree oil, but I just noticed that after applying them, my skin became dry and looked like it might peel.
Is it safe to apply antiseptic alcohol and tea tree oil on that area?

no, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/11

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description of symptoms, it is more likely due to inflammation or friction.
If the symptoms persist, I recommend that you consult a breast surgeon or a gynecologist for evaluation and examination.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2020/05/11

More Info

When it comes to breast and nipple issues, especially in young individuals like yourself, it's important to approach the situation with care and understanding. Based on your description, you have experienced several symptoms including itching, swelling, changes in skin color, and the presence of small bumps or sores around your nipple area. While these symptoms can be concerning, they are not necessarily indicative of a serious condition like cancer, especially at your age.

Firstly, let's break down some of the symptoms you've mentioned. The small bump that itches and has changed in color could be a number of things. It might be a benign condition such as a sebaceous cyst, folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles), or even a mild allergic reaction to something that has come into contact with your skin. The fact that it has been itchy and has undergone changes in appearance suggests that it may be an inflammatory process rather than something malignant.

The peeling skin and the presence of pus could indicate an infection, particularly if the area has been irritated or scratched. It's also possible that the irritation is exacerbated by the use of certain topical treatments like alcohol or tea tree oil, which can be quite drying and irritating to sensitive skin. While tea tree oil has some antiseptic properties, it can also cause allergic reactions or irritation in some individuals, especially when applied to broken skin. Similarly, alcohol can dry out the skin and lead to further irritation.

Given that you have noticed these symptoms persisting for several months, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist or a gynecologist, can provide a thorough examination and may recommend appropriate treatments. They might suggest a topical antibiotic if an infection is suspected or a different type of ointment that is more suitable for sensitive skin.

In terms of breast cancer, it is important to note that breast cancer is quite rare in individuals your age. Most breast changes in teenagers and young adults are related to hormonal fluctuations, which can cause benign conditions such as fibrocystic changes or hormonal-induced changes in breast tissue. However, any persistent changes, especially those that involve pain, swelling, or unusual skin changes, should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out any serious conditions.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations for managing your symptoms:
1. Avoid Irritants: Try to avoid using harsh soaps, alcohol, or tea tree oil on the affected area until you can see a doctor. Instead, use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.

2. Moisturize: Applying a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer can help soothe the skin and prevent further irritation.

3. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting clothing and avoid tight bras or clothing that may rub against the affected area.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the size of the bumps, any new symptoms, or changes in color. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

5. Seek Medical Advice: Since your symptoms have persisted and changed over time, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

In summary, while your symptoms may be concerning, they are not necessarily indicative of a serious condition like cancer, especially given your age. However, it is crucial to seek medical advice to ensure proper evaluation and treatment. Your health and peace of mind are important, and a healthcare provider can help you navigate these concerns effectively.

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