Breast Lumps: Do Massages Help and When to Seek Medical Advice?

Hard lump in the chest?

Over a year ago, I discovered some small hard lumps in my chest and went to the hospital for an examination.
However, after the doctor performed a physical examination and an ultrasound, he scheduled me for surgery, which terrified me! I was shocked because I had no idea I was going to have surgery! During the ultrasound, the technician also found it strange and thought there wasn't much of a lump, saying I was overly sensitive.
During this time, I felt that the small lumps had decreased, and eventually, I did not undergo surgery.
However, now there has been a noticeable increase in the lumps and signs of enlargement.
I heard that massage can promote metabolism, and after some massage, the lumps did decrease, but now that they are small to a certain extent, it has become very difficult to eliminate them, and the rate of disappearance has slowed down.
I would like to ask the doctor, can massage really help eliminate the hard lumps in the breast? Should I seek medical attention immediately? When I go for a check-up, do I need to visit multiple medical facilities? Thank you.

Emin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/11/30

Dr. Xu Junzheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Massage cannot eliminate lumps in the breast.
In addition to ultrasound examination, there are other methods to assist in determining whether surgery is necessary.
It is recommended to seek evaluations from multiple medical institutions to obtain more detailed information.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2003/11/30

More Info

When it comes to understanding breast lumps, it's essential to approach the situation with caution and awareness. Breast lumps can arise from various causes, including benign conditions such as cysts or fibroadenomas, as well as more serious issues like breast cancer. Given your experience with breast lumps and the changes you've observed, it's crucial to consider both the potential benefits and limitations of massage, as well as when to seek medical advice.

Firstly, regarding the use of massage for breast lumps, there is limited scientific evidence to support the idea that massage can effectively eliminate breast lumps. While some individuals report feeling that massage helps reduce discomfort or even the size of lumps, it is important to understand that this is largely anecdotal. Massage may promote blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, which can provide temporary relief from discomfort, but it is unlikely to change the underlying pathology of a lump. If the lump is benign, it may not require any treatment beyond monitoring. However, if the lump is malignant, massage could potentially exacerbate the situation or lead to further complications.

Given that you have noticed an increase in the number of lumps and their size, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. You should consult a healthcare professional, preferably a breast specialist or a surgeon, who can perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate imaging studies, such as a mammogram or ultrasound. These imaging techniques can provide valuable information about the nature of the lumps and help determine whether further intervention is necessary.

When you visit the doctor, be prepared to discuss your medical history, any changes you've noticed in your breasts, and any other symptoms you may be experiencing. This information will assist the physician in making an informed assessment. Depending on the findings, the doctor may recommend a biopsy to determine the nature of the lumps, especially if there are concerning features on imaging studies.

In terms of where to seek medical care, you can visit a breast clinic, a general practitioner, or a gynecologist. If you have a history of breast issues or if your lumps have changed significantly, it may be beneficial to go directly to a breast specialist. They can provide a more focused evaluation and management plan tailored to your specific situation.

In summary, while massage may provide temporary relief, it is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation and treatment. Given the changes you've observed in your breast lumps, it is crucial to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Early detection and intervention are key to managing breast health effectively. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount, and consulting a healthcare professional will provide you with the guidance and support you need.

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