Breast Cysts: Pain, Concerns, and Follow-Up Care

Q: Breast Cysts: Pain, Concerns, and Follow-Up Care

Hello： 1. Cysts are often multiple, and they may or may not be painful. In most cases, if there are many cysts, observation without aspiration is usually sufficient. 2. Generally, aspiration is performed on cysts that are symptomatic or continue to enlarge

Fibrocystic breast pain?

Hello, doctor.
I live in Penghu.
Two years ago, before I gave birth, I felt two hard lumps under my right breast, spaced about a finger's width apart.
After an ultrasound, the doctor thought they were irregular, and I underwent a fine needle aspiration biopsy, which reported atypical cells.
I was scared and quickly went to Taiwan for a surgical excision to remove the two lumps, which were later diagnosed as benign fibroadenomas!
Now, it has been seven months since I gave birth.
Due to my physical condition, I had insufficient breast milk, so I only breastfed intermittently and stopped after a month.
However, even now, if I intentionally express milk from both breasts, I can still get a milky white fluid.
In the fourth month postpartum, I felt a hard lump on the inner side of my left breast, which was painful when pressed.
I had an ultrasound, and the doctor said it was a cyst, noting that I had several on both sides, but the one I felt was closer to the chest and more superficial, so it was palpable.
The doctor advised me to monitor it.
However, two months later, I felt another hard lump next to the first one, spaced about a finger's width apart.
After discovering this, I quickly went to see the doctor again, but after the examination, the doctor said it was nothing to worry about and that I should just monitor it.
I noticed that this new lump, while not as hard, was quite painful when pressed.
I followed the doctor's advice and tried to stay calm.
But today, I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pains near this hard lump, and sometimes the pain is continuous.
Even raising my arm causes pain near the lump.
Am I sick? I am someone who is very afraid of getting sick; even the slightest symptom makes me worry excessively, and I tend to seek medical attention quickly.
However, the doctors keep saying it's nothing to worry about.
Can't they determine the symptoms without performing another aspiration like last time? Could you please explain this to me? Thank you!

Ting Er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/22

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid

Hello:
1.
Cysts are often multiple, and they may or may not be painful.
In most cases, if there are many cysts, observation without aspiration is usually sufficient.

2.
Generally, aspiration is performed on cysts that are symptomatic or continue to enlarge.

3.
Cysts are mostly benign, with malignant transformation being rare; regular follow-up is adequate.

Wishing you peace and health,
Director of Surgery, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare,
Zhou Jiazhen

Reply Date: 2015/07/22

More Info

Understanding breast cysts and associated pain can be a complex issue, especially for individuals who have experienced previous breast conditions. Based on your description, it seems you have a history of breast cysts and fibrous adenomas, which are benign tumors. The fact that you have been monitored by healthcare professionals is a positive sign, but your current symptoms warrant further discussion.

Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs within the breast tissue. They can vary in size and may cause discomfort or pain, particularly if they become larger or if there are multiple cysts in close proximity. The pain you are experiencing, especially the intermittent sharp pain near the hard lump, could be attributed to several factors:
1. Hormonal Changes: Breast tissue is sensitive to hormonal fluctuations, particularly estrogen and progesterone. After childbirth, your body undergoes significant hormonal changes, which can lead to the development of new cysts or changes in existing ones. This could explain the pain and the new lump you have noticed.

2. Cyst Characteristics: While many cysts are benign and do not require intervention, their characteristics can change over time. If a cyst becomes inflamed or if there is a change in its structure, it may cause pain. The fact that you have multiple cysts could also contribute to discomfort, especially if they are located near sensitive areas of breast tissue.

3. Infection or Inflammation: Although less common, cysts can sometimes become infected or inflamed, leading to increased pain and tenderness. If you notice any redness, warmth, or discharge from the area, it would be important to seek medical attention promptly.

4. Anxiety and Stress: Your concern about your health is understandable, especially given your previous experiences. Anxiety can sometimes amplify the perception of pain, making it feel more intense than it might otherwise be. It's essential to address both your physical symptoms and your emotional well-being.

Given your history and current symptoms, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. While they may have previously recommended monitoring, the new symptoms you are experiencing—such as the sharp, intermittent pain—should be evaluated further. You might consider asking for a repeat ultrasound or even a mammogram, depending on your age and risk factors, to ensure that there are no new developments that need to be addressed.

In terms of managing your anxiety, consider discussing your feelings with your doctor. They may recommend strategies to help you cope with your fears about health issues, which can include counseling or support groups.
Additionally, if you are uncomfortable with the level of care you are receiving, seeking a second opinion is always a valid option. It’s crucial that you feel heard and supported in your healthcare journey.
In summary, while your previous evaluations suggest that your breast conditions are benign, the new symptoms you are experiencing warrant further investigation. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are key to managing your breast health effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Breast Cysts: Causes, Concerns, and Management Options

Hello Doctor: I went to the hospital today for a breast examination. The doctor mentioned that I have a few cysts in both breasts, but he said they don't look much like fibrocystic cysts. He didn't specify what type of cysts they are, and there is a slight calcification...

Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid
Ultrasound is typically a type of imaging examination. I believe that benign findings are more common. Returning for a follow-up examination in three months is just to confirm whether there are any slight changes that may still be present. I suggest you follow your physician'...

Post-Surgery Breast Tumor: Managing Pain and Swelling Concerns

Hello, doctor. Last year, I discovered a cyst in my breast, accompanied by swelling and pain, so I sought medical attention. After an ultrasound examination, the doctor said it was benign and that I shouldn't worry too much. The swelling was due to inflammation of the cyst, ...

Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, if the pathology report has been sent for testing, you should feel more at ease. 1. You can consider getting an ultrasound for further evaluation. 2. If there is significant swelling, there is indeed a possibility of rupture. 3. Inverted nipples can be a more challenging i...

Managing Breast Cysts: Non-Invasive Treatment Options and Pain Relief

There is a 1.3 cm cyst located directly beneath the nipple, which appears neither red nor swollen. It is usually painless, but it hurts when pressed. After each ultrasound examination, the nipple and areola experience severe pain, making them untouchable for three to five days. T...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! If the pain is severe and affects your daily life, it is recommended to consider surgical removal. If the pain occurs occasionally and it is confirmed to be benign, long-term monitoring along with occasional pain relief is advisable. If there is an infection, antibiotic tr...

Understanding Breast Cysts: Pain, Fluid Accumulation, and Imaging Needs

Hello, doctor: I have been experiencing breast pain and went to see a doctor for an ultrasound. The doctor said it was fluid accumulation and advised me to exercise more to help drain it. I would like to ask if this is the same as a fibrocystic condition, and at my age, do I need...

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello: 1. The most common cause of breast pain is fibrocystic breast changes, which require follow-up after 6 months. 2. It is generally recommended that women over the age of 40 should undergo mammography. Wishing you safety and health, Dr. Chou Chia-Cheng, Director of Surgery, ...