Nipple Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice

Nipple pain issues?

Hello, doctor: I noticed nipple pain while showering last winter.
Upon examination, I found a wound resembling a fissure, but there was no unusual discharge.
After some time, the pain suddenly disappeared, so I didn't pay much attention to it.
However, this condition has recurred recently, and I am unsure what might be causing it.
Should I seek an examination, and which clinic should I consult? Thank you for taking the time to respond.

shui, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/08/29

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Dear Water,
Hello.
In winter, the skin is prone to dryness, which can lead to裂傷 (fissures).
Additionally, it may also be eczema.
In the worst-case scenario, it could be skin lesions caused by malignant tumors on the nipple or areola.
I recommend visiting the surgical outpatient department for further examination.
The Tainan Hospital of the Department of Health is concerned about your health!

Reply Date: 2006/08/29

More Info

Nipple pain can be a concerning symptom for many individuals, and understanding its potential causes is crucial for determining the appropriate course of action. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced nipple pain in the past, which was associated with a crack-like injury but without any unusual discharge. The pain resolved on its own, but it has recently returned.
There are several potential causes of nipple pain, and they can range from benign to more serious conditions. Here are some common causes:
1. Skin Irritation or Injury: The most common cause of nipple pain is irritation or injury to the skin. This can occur due to friction from clothing, allergic reactions to soaps or detergents, or even from breastfeeding. If you have sensitive skin, it may be more prone to cracking or irritation.

2. Infections: Conditions such as mastitis (an infection of the breast tissue) can cause pain, redness, and swelling. While this is more common in breastfeeding women, it can occur in others as well. If there is any discharge, especially if it is pus-like or bloody, this warrants immediate medical attention.

3. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly those related to the menstrual cycle, can lead to breast tenderness and nipple pain. This is often cyclical and may resolve on its own.

4. Fibrocystic Breast Changes: Many women experience fibrocystic breast changes, which can cause lumps, tenderness, and pain in the breasts and nipples. This condition is usually benign but can be uncomfortable.

5. Paget’s Disease of the Nipple: This is a rare form of breast cancer that can present with symptoms such as itching, redness, and pain in the nipple area. It often resembles eczema and may be accompanied by changes in the appearance of the nipple.

6. Other Breast Conditions: Conditions such as cysts or tumors (benign or malignant) can also cause nipple pain. While most breast lumps are not cancerous, any new or unusual changes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Given that your nipple pain has recurred, it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially since you previously experienced a similar issue. You should consider visiting a healthcare provider who specializes in breast health, such as a gynecologist or a breast specialist. They can perform a thorough examination, take a detailed medical history, and possibly recommend imaging studies, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, while nipple pain can often be benign and self-limiting, the recurrence of symptoms, especially after a previous episode, should not be ignored. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed and to receive appropriate treatment if necessary. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Nipple Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Since March, after experiencing breast pain suspected to be related to sexual activity, I had an ultrasound at a breast surgery clinic three weeks later. The doctor said there was nothing concerning found and that I shouldn't worry about it. I had a mammogram last year that ...

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
If there was no pain in the past and then discomfort in the breast occurred due to external factors in March, generally, it is necessary to eliminate those external factors (such as pressure or impact) for a gradual recovery. During this process, unintentional touching may also c...

Understanding Nipple Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Dear Dr. Hsu, Hello, recently I have been experiencing pain when touching my nipples, and I am unsure of the cause of this condition. I would appreciate your guidance on this matter. Thank you!

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
Based on the description you provided, further examinations are needed to confirm the issue. It is recommended to visit the surgical outpatient clinic for an evaluation.

Understanding Nipple Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, Doctor. About a month ago, I noticed that I experience slight pain when pressing on my left nipple, and there is a small swelling in the nipple area (there are no lumps elsewhere). It is not visually noticeable, but it is evident that the left nipple is slightly swollen co...

Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid
However, if your condition has worsened compared to your first visit to the doctor, you should schedule another outpatient appointment.

Understanding Male Nipple Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello, I am a 40-year-old male. For the past 2-3 days, I have been experiencing some swelling and pain in my nipples, which has not improved. They feel swollen and painful, and there is no sensation of any foreign body upon palpation. The areola and nipple are swollen and painful...

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Ah Xiang, Hello, excessive use of the muscle fascia and neuropathic pain are common causes of male breast pain. If the pain is localized only to the nipple, the likelihood of gynecomastia is higher, which may be caused by hyperplasia of the mammary ducts. This condition can...