Breast Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice and Testing Options

Breast lump

Hello, I would like to inquire about having hard lumps in both breasts (not small lumps) that are painful when pressed.
The pain increases before my menstrual period, and this has been the case since puberty.
Is there a problem with this? If an examination is necessary, which specialty should I consult and what type of imaging should be performed? Thank you!

Xiao C, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/08/19

Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Breast and Thyroid

Hello, if there has been no increase in size or hardness, it is likely a benign change.
However, you should still seek an examination by a breast or general surgeon.
Currently, physical examination and ultrasound are the preferred methods of evaluation.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Wu Ching-Tang, Attending Surgeon.

Reply Date: 2009/08/19

More Info

When it comes to breast lumps, especially those that are painful and have been present for a long time, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and seek medical advice. Breast lumps can arise from various causes, including hormonal changes, benign conditions, or, in some cases, malignancies. Given your description of having hard lumps in both breasts that cause pain, particularly before your menstrual period, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

Understanding Breast Lumps
1. Hormonal Influence: Many women experience breast tenderness and lumpiness related to their menstrual cycle due to hormonal fluctuations. Conditions like fibrocystic breast changes are common and can cause lumpy, painful breasts, especially in the days leading up to menstruation. These changes are typically benign and may resolve after your period.

2. Benign Conditions: Other benign conditions include cysts (fluid-filled sacs), fibroadenomas (solid, non-cancerous tumors), and other fibrous tissue changes. While these are generally not harmful, they can cause discomfort and may require monitoring or treatment.

3. Malignant Conditions: While less common, it is crucial to rule out breast cancer, especially if there are changes in the lumps, such as increased size, shape, or associated symptoms like discharge or skin changes. Breast cancer can present as a lump, and early detection is vital for effective treatment.

When to Seek Medical Advice
You should seek medical advice if:
- The lumps persist or change in size or shape.

- You experience significant pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications.

- There are any changes in the skin over the breast or nipple, such as redness, dimpling, or discharge.

- You have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors.

Recommended Medical Consultations and Tests
1. Consultation: Start by scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider who specializes in breast health, such as a gynecologist or a breast surgeon. They can perform a clinical breast examination and assess your symptoms.

2. Imaging Tests: Depending on the findings from your physical examination, your doctor may recommend imaging tests. Common options include:
- Mammography: This X-ray of the breast is typically recommended for women over 40 or those with risk factors. It can help identify abnormalities.

- Ultrasound: This test is often used to evaluate lumps, especially in younger women with denser breast tissue. It can differentiate between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts.

- MRI: In certain cases, an MRI may be recommended for a more detailed view, especially if there are concerns about the extent of disease or if other imaging results are inconclusive.

3. Biopsy: If imaging tests reveal suspicious areas, a biopsy may be necessary to obtain tissue samples for pathological examination. This can help determine whether the lump is benign or malignant.

Conclusion
In summary, while breast lumps can often be benign, it is essential to take any changes seriously and seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can guide you through the appropriate tests and evaluations to ensure your breast health is monitored effectively. Early detection and intervention are key in managing any potential issues, so do not hesitate to reach out for help.

Similar Q&A

What to Do If You Suspect Breast Cancer: Expert Advice

If a patient is suspected of having breast cancer, what management would you recommend?

Dr. Zhao Ming reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello: If there are concerns about suspected breast cancer, it is best to immediately consult a breast surgeon for further evaluation. A thorough physical examination should be conducted first, followed by mammography and ultrasound to assess the nature of the lesion. A tissue bi...

Breast Concerns: When to See a Specialist and What Tests to Expect

Hello Doctor: I have a question. 1. My left breast is more prominent than my right, and I can feel a hard lump. Should I see a breast surgeon? Is it possible that this could be breast cancer? 2. If I go for a consultation, what tests should I expect?

Dr. Xie Wenhuai reply Breast and Thyroid
Some adolescent boys may experience breast swelling or even palpable lumps, which is similar to your description. It can often be disregarded, but if you are concerned, you can visit a nearby hospital for a surgical consultation and arrange for an ultrasound examination.

Essential Knowledge and FAQs About Breast Health and Cancer Prevention

Hello Doctor: I am Reena, a news editor for a women's website. I noticed that your site emphasizes "the importance of cherishing medical resources," but many of our female readers still lack clarity and implementation regarding breast cancer prevention. Therefore, ...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! 1. A breast examination during puberty is not too early, as if a lump is detected and an ultrasound reveals a tumor, it is usually benign and can be monitored. At least there will be a record for future comparisons in adulthood. 2. Hard lumps can occur not only in the b...

Understanding Breast Cysts: Monitoring and Management Tips

If a breast cyst is irregular, what precautions should I take? The doctor mentioned a follow-up in six months; is that too long? Should I not do anything in the meantime? My mother is a breast cancer patient.

Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid
At your age, an ultrasound examination is sufficient. If there are any abnormalities in the breast ultrasound images, you may consider undergoing a core needle biopsy.