Breast Pain and Lumps in a 14-Year-Old: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Breast Pain and Lumps in a 14-Year-Old: When to Seek Medical Advice

Dear Kaka： 1. Breast pain can sometimes be caused by hormonal stimulation leading to hyperplasia of the breast tissue and ducts; regular self-examinations are recommended. 2. A hard lump in the center of the breast may be normal breast tissue. During palpa

Breast pain with a lump?

Hello, doctor.
My daughter is 14 years old.
She sometimes experiences pain below her left breast, and there are hard lumps in the center of both breasts.
Should I take her for a check-up? If so, should I schedule an appointment with a pediatrician (since she is under 15) or with a breast surgeon?

KAKA, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/05/20

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid

Dear Kaka:
1.
Breast pain can sometimes be caused by hormonal stimulation leading to hyperplasia of the breast tissue and ducts; regular self-examinations are recommended.

2.
A hard lump in the center of the breast may be normal breast tissue.
During palpation, observe whether the lump is movable.
If it is a mass, there is a higher likelihood of it being a fibroepithelial tumor in a 14-year-old girl.
It is advisable to visit a breast surgery clinic for further examination and education from a physician.

Wishing you peace and health,
Dr.
Chou Chia-Cheng, Chief of Surgery, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.

Reply Date: 2011/05/20

More Info

Breast pain and the presence of lumps in adolescents can be concerning for both the patient and their guardians. In the case of your 14-year-old daughter, it is important to approach this situation with a clear understanding of the common causes and when to seek medical advice.

Firstly, breast pain (mastalgia) and lumps in young girls are often benign and related to hormonal changes during puberty. The breast tissue undergoes significant changes during this time due to fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels, which can lead to tenderness, swelling, and the formation of lumps. These lumps are frequently cysts or fibrocystic changes, which are common and usually harmless.
In your daughter's case, the pain localized to the left side and the presence of hard lumps in both breasts could be indicative of normal developmental changes. However, it is crucial to monitor the symptoms closely. If the pain is persistent, worsening, or associated with other concerning symptoms such as changes in the skin over the breast, discharge from the nipple, or significant changes in the size or shape of the lumps, it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation.

Regarding the choice of healthcare provider, since your daughter is 14 years old, you have a couple of options. A pediatrician (小兒科) is well-equipped to handle adolescent health issues and can provide a thorough examination. They can assess whether the breast changes are typical for her age or if further investigation is warranted. If the pediatrician feels that the symptoms require specialized attention, they may refer you to a breast specialist (乳房外科) or a gynecologist who has experience with adolescent patients.

In summary, while breast pain and lumps in a 14-year-old are often benign and related to puberty, it is essential to monitor the situation. If the symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have any concerns about the nature of the lumps, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Starting with a pediatrician is a good approach, as they can provide guidance and referrals as needed. Regular check-ups and open communication about any changes in symptoms will help ensure your daughter's health and peace of mind.

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