Breast Lumps: What You Need to Know About Symptoms and Concerns

Q: Breast Lumps: What You Need to Know About Symptoms and Concerns

Hello： There is no family history of cancer, but the possibility of disease cannot be ruled out. <br>If a lump has been detected, even if previous examinations did not reveal any abnormalities, regular follow-up examinations are still necessary to monitor for any changes in the c

Breast lump

Hello, doctor.
Four years ago, I experienced sharp pain in both breasts and consulted a physician who performed an ultrasound, which was normal.
I would like to know that when I lie down and palpate my breasts in a clockwise direction, I can feel many hard areas, approximately 0.5 to 1 cm in size.
I am quite thin and have small breasts (this has been the case for a long time).
Additionally, I noticed something similar to a scab on my right nipple about six months ago.
It was not discharge (it was grayish-white) and could be removed; it appeared twice but has not returned since.
I also feel some movable lumps in my armpit lymph nodes.
Does this count as lymphadenopathy? I can't really determine their size, but there are lumps on both sides.
I also have some in my groin area, but I never specifically checked my armpit lymph nodes before, so I am unsure if there have been any changes.
Is it normal to be able to palpate lymph nodes? I have no other symptoms, and no one in my family has had cancer.

Xiao Bu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/11/07

Dr. Dong Yuhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: There is no family history of cancer, but the possibility of disease cannot be ruled out.
If a lump has been detected, even if previous examinations did not reveal any abnormalities, regular follow-up examinations are still necessary to monitor for any changes in the condition.
Therefore, based on your situation, it is recommended to consult a breast surgeon for relevant examinations and follow-up.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2013/11/07

More Info

When it comes to breast health, understanding the symptoms and concerns surrounding breast lumps is crucial for early detection and peace of mind. Based on your description, you have experienced breast pain, noticed hard lumps in your breasts, and have observed changes in your nipples and lymph nodes. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you need to know.

Understanding Breast Lumps
Breast lumps can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, benign conditions, or, in some cases, malignancies. The fact that you have previously undergone an ultrasound that returned normal results is reassuring, but it does not entirely rule out the possibility of changes occurring since that time.

1. Breast Pain and Hormonal Influence: Breast pain, especially if it correlates with your menstrual cycle, is often linked to hormonal fluctuations. This type of pain is usually cyclical and can be exacerbated by conditions such as fibrocystic breast changes, which are benign and characterized by lumpy, painful breasts.
2. Lumps in the Breast: The hard lumps you feel (0.5-1 cm) could be normal breast tissue or benign conditions like cysts or fibroadenomas. However, any new or changing lumps should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Regular self-exams are important, but if you notice changes, it’s best to consult a doctor.

3. Nipple Changes: The grayish-white substance you described on your nipple could be related to a condition known as seborrheic keratosis, or it could be a benign discharge. However, any persistent or unusual discharge should be evaluated, especially if it occurs alongside other symptoms.

4. Lymph Nodes: Feeling movable lumps in your axillary (armpit) region can be normal, as lymph nodes can vary in size and can become reactive due to infections or other benign conditions. However, if they are persistently enlarged or hard, it’s essential to have them checked by a healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider, preferably a breast specialist. Here are some specific reasons to seek medical attention:
- New or Changing Lumps: If you notice any new lumps or changes in existing lumps, especially if they feel different than before.

- Persistent Pain: If breast pain is severe, persistent, or not linked to your menstrual cycle.

- Nipple Discharge: Any unusual discharge, especially if it is bloody or occurs without squeezing the nipple.

- Lymph Node Changes: If the lymph nodes in your armpit feel hard, fixed, or continue to enlarge.

Diagnostic Tests
Your healthcare provider may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as:
- Breast Ultrasound: This is often the first step in evaluating breast lumps, especially in younger women.

- Mammogram: Depending on your age and risk factors, a mammogram may be appropriate.

- Biopsy: If there is any concern about a lump, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out cancer.

Conclusion
While many breast changes are benign, it is essential to remain vigilant and proactive about your breast health. Regular self-exams, awareness of your body, and timely consultations with healthcare professionals are key to ensuring any potential issues are addressed early. If you have concerns about your symptoms or changes in your breast or lymph nodes, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Your health and peace of mind are paramount.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Breast Lumps: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help

I recently found a lump in my breast, and it hurts when I press on it. I used to be a bit overweight, but I've lost weight and have been exercising regularly. I'm a bit worried about this. What could be the reason?

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery
If a lump is found in the breast, it may not necessarily be related to body weight, and it is important to get it checked. You should consult a breast surgeon.

Understanding Breast Lumps: When to Worry and What to Expect

A few days ago, I discovered a small movable lump on the right side of my breast. Today, I went to National Taiwan University Hospital for an examination, and the doctor said it should be benign. However, he didn't explain it clearly. When I asked him if there was any danger...

Dr. Lin Shuilong reply Surgery
Hello, if you are looking for a breast specialist, you should be able to trust their diagnosis. (1) Generally, the symptoms of breast cancer include: eczema-like skin changes or unusual discharge from the nipple, asymmetry in size or height between the breasts or nipples, retract...

Understanding Breast Health: Common Concerns and Questions

I would like to ask the doctor: Breast cancer is said to present as a hard lump in the breast. For girls in their developmental stage, if there is a lump in the breast, is it considered dangerous? I have heard that it is also necessary to check the armpit for swollen lymph nodes,...

Dr. Yang Mingqi reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello: 1. Most breast cancer presents as a hard lump, but some cases may exhibit other symptoms such as bloody or serous nipple discharge, nipple or breast retraction, and microcalcifications. 2. While most breast lumps are benign lesions, it is essential to have a diagnosis made...

Understanding Breast Cancer Symptoms and How to Identify Lumps

What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer? How can one determine if a lump is hard? Thank you!

Dr. Yang Youhua reply Oncology
The most common signs of breast cancer are a hard lump in the breast or a hard lump in the same side's axilla, which is typically painless. Other signs include abnormal nipple discharge or discharge that contains blood. Skin changes in the breast, such as bruising and a peau...