Understanding Painful Right Nipple Bumps: Causes and Solutions
Right nipple Hello, Dr. Chou. I have a small bump on my right nipple that feels a bit painful. Today is the third day, and I noticed that when I squeezed it, pus and blood came out. After squeezing, it still feels swollen, and I keep squeezing out more blood (there's quite a...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Xiao Miao: It may be a skin lesion, often caused by infection due to blocked skin glands, which can sometimes lead to the accumulation of pus and recurrent episodes. If symptoms persist, recur, or enlarge, it is advisable to seek an outpatient examination.[Read More] Understanding Painful Right Nipple Bumps: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Breast Firmness in Young Women: What You Need to Know
The firmness of a woman's breasts? Hello doctor, may I ask how soft a woman's breasts should be? My girlfriend's breasts are somewhat firm, but not really hard, just not soft. She is currently eighteen years old; does this mean they will still grow? Why might they ...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Anonymous: 1. It is unrelated to childhood injuries. 2. The softness or hardness of the breasts is related to the proportion of fat in the breast tissue, which varies from person to person. Eastern women typically have denser and firmer breasts, but with the westernization o...[Read More] Understanding Breast Firmness in Young Women: What You Need to Know
Understanding Post-Surgery Swelling in Breast Cancer Patients
Postoperative axillary swelling after breast cancer surgery? After five years of follow-up post-breast cancer surgery without any signs of recurrence, the recent discovery of swelling in the neck and armpit raises concerns. This situation could indicate several possibilities, inc...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Wu: Postoperative lymphedema is most commonly observed in the affected upper limb, and less frequently in the neck. It is important to check for any signs of lymphadenopathy.[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Swelling in Breast Cancer Patients
Is Daily Soy Milk Consumption Safe? Debunking Myths About Breast Health
Can soy milk be consumed every day? Recently, I saw a news report about a woman who has been making and drinking soy milk every morning for three years, but she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Some doctors mentioned that women should not consume soy milk frequently, as it may i...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Dongdong: Soy milk can be consumed daily; legumes contain phytoestrogens, but since they are natural, moderate consumption is beneficial, especially unsweetened soy milk. In general, moderation is key in all diets. Currently, the only dietary factor associated with breast ca...[Read More] Is Daily Soy Milk Consumption Safe? Debunking Myths About Breast Health
Understanding Breast Discomfort: Itchy Nipples and Thyroid Concerns
Breast discomfort? The nipples are very itchy and I have the urge to scratch them. I applied anti-itch cream, but it was ineffective. The nipples are not inverted, and there are no small lumps or eczema upon examination of the breasts. There is also no discharge. After scratching...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Yang: There is some discharge from the nipples, which is mostly unnoticed. The accumulation of these substances can lead to issues similar to allergies or dermatitis. It is important to maintain good hygiene, keeping the area clean and dry. If symptoms persist, it is advisab...[Read More] Understanding Breast Discomfort: Itchy Nipples and Thyroid Concerns
Understanding Itchy Nipples and Enlarged Areolas: What You Need to Know
Itchy nipples and enlarged areolas? Hello! I would like to ask, sometimes my nipples itch, and recently I noticed that the left areola has enlarged, followed by the right areola also enlarging. Should I be concerned about this? (I have a larger thyroid nodule measuring about 2x2 ...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Candy: 1. It is not related to the thyroid. 2. The nipple has many openings of milk ducts and skin glands, and some minor secretions may not be easily visible. Sometimes, these secretions can accumulate on the nipple, leading to allergic reactions or eczema-like changes. Occ...[Read More] Understanding Itchy Nipples and Enlarged Areolas: What You Need to Know
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Breast Fibroadenomas: What You Need to Know
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Breast Fibroadenoma I am 47 years old, unmarried, and have never given birth. I discovered a fibroadenoma in my right breast when I was 18, and in my 30s, I found another fibroadenoma in my left breast. I have been undergoing follow-up with a breast...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Ms. Li: Is minimally invasive surgery the same as "Mammotome"? This procedure is not covered by health insurance and is primarily used for 1. the removal of benign tumors and 2. biopsies of suspected malignant tumors. It is not recommended for the excision of suspe...[Read More] Minimally Invasive Surgery for Breast Fibroadenomas: What You Need to Know
Excessive Oily Discharge from Breast: Causes and Concerns
Breast oiliness Hello doctor, I have excessive oil secretion from my left breast, which soaks half of my bra. The fluid is clear, odorless, and feels very oily, similar to baby oil. I'm a bit worried because the amount is significant. What could this condition be?
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear TA: Is it oil coming from the breast or the nipple? If it's unilateral, I would recommend an outpatient examination. Most cases involve nipple discharge, but I haven't encountered oil. Please visit a breast surgery clinic for evaluation.[Read More] Excessive Oily Discharge from Breast: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Breast Tumors: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Emotional Support
Breast tumor During a physical examination, a 0.6 cm tumor was found at the 7 o'clock position on the right side. The doctor recommended a biopsy because it appeared to be raised, but stated there is a 95% chance it is benign. I immediately went to Chang Gung Memorial Hospit...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Mo: 1. Changing hospitals would be fine. 2. Conversely, the chances of it being benign are very high, which is why the doctor scheduled such a long wait, but no doctor can definitively tell the patient that it is benign; we can only wait. 3. If it is malignant, a second surg...[Read More] Understanding Breast Tumors: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Emotional Support
Understanding the Cost of Thyroid Surgery: Is $70,000 to $80,000 Normal?
Surgical costs I would like to ask about a growth resembling a tumor or cartilage on the fifth cervical vertebra. The doctor has recommended surgical removal after performing a CT scan. Is it normal for the cost to be between 70,000 to 80,000 NT dollars?
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear 60051: Are you referring to the neck? Is it the cervical spine? Is the fifth joint the fifth cervical joint? Please consult a neurosurgeon.[Read More] Understanding the Cost of Thyroid Surgery: Is $70,000 to $80,000 Normal?
Understanding White Nipple Discharge: When to Seek Medical Advice
Nipple discharge of white fluid? I would like to ask, today I noticed that when I compress my breast, a white fluid comes out of the nipple (I am not pregnant or breastfeeding). Is this normal? I have been taking stomach medication for a while. If it is not normal, which speciali...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Zhenzhen: 1. Increased secretion is often caused by mammary gland hyperplasia, which is usually bilateral, but can also be unilateral. If symptoms persist or if the discharge changes to a white, abnormal appearance, it is recommended to follow up with a breast surgery clin...[Read More] Understanding White Nipple Discharge: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Axillary Lumps: Causes and When to Seek Treatment
Axillary swelling? Thank you for your previous response, doctor. I have noticed swelling in my armpit that is not visible externally. You mentioned it could be accessory breast tissue, but I have not had this in past examinations. Is it possible for it to develop now? Do you have...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello: There is a larger lump under your right armpit, and a smaller one under your left armpit. Generally, both sides have tissue that is mostly accessory breast tissue, but you mentioned that there is no obvious lump on the surface; it may be located deeper in the armpit. Lymph...[Read More] Understanding Axillary Lumps: Causes and When to Seek Treatment
Understanding Breast Lumps: Causes and Concerns for Teens
A lump that increases in size with breast enlargement? I am currently a senior in high school and would like to ask about a hard lump in my breast that I have had since childhood. The lump has grown larger as my breast has developed, and now it feels like my entire breast is comp...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello: Most cases are caused by fibrocystic breast changes, and sometimes it may be a fibroadenoma. If you are concerned, you can have an outpatient examination. Pay attention to whether you notice any increase in the size of the lump or any symptoms. If so, please seek an outpat...[Read More] Understanding Breast Lumps: Causes and Concerns for Teens
Understanding Post-Cyst Aspiration Changes in Breast Tissue
Breast seroma After the aspiration of a cyst, it has been one month, and upon self-examination, I still feel a hard lump. Is this a normal phenomenon? Thank you.
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello Ms. Wang: After aspiration of a cyst, it is possible to still feel a lump, as there may be reaccumulation of fluid in the cyst, or the cyst wall may be thickened, giving a lump-like sensation. If you notice that it has increased in size or recurs, surgical excision is recom...[Read More] Understanding Post-Cyst Aspiration Changes in Breast Tissue
Understanding Breast Sensitivity: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Pressing on the breast may cause a sensation of itching? Hello, I have been experiencing a deep pressure sensation in my right breast (specifically on the sternum) accompanied by a very sensitive itching feeling inside (not on the surface). Could this be a breast issue? I have un...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello Ms. Lin: Sometimes it is a sensory nerve issue, not a problem with the breast itself. Everyone has axillary lymph nodes; as long as they do not become hard or enlarged, regular check-ups are sufficient.[Read More] Understanding Breast Sensitivity: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Inverted Nipples and White Discharge in Men
The nipple is inverted, and there is a thin layer of white discharge in the depressed area? Question 1: I have had inverted nipples since childhood. Is this normal for males? Question 2: If I lightly scrape the inverted part of my nipple with my fingernail, there is a small amo...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello: Male nipples can also have a depression, and as long as there are no persistent changes, it is not a concern. Regarding discharge, it can vary in amount; it may be due to the depression being less open or more prone to accumulation, making it more noticeable. As long as th...[Read More] Understanding Inverted Nipples and White Discharge in Men
Understanding Breast Nodules: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
There is a lump beneath the left areola? Hello Dr. Chou, Thank you very much for your previous response. I am Ah-Xiang, who asked about the "lump under the left areola" on November 20th. I would like to extend my questions to you as follows: 1. You mentioned that if t...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello Mr. Ah-Hsiang: It is important to pay attention to the issue of enlargement, as symptoms may vary from person to person, and everyone may feel differently. If you notice any changes or if it affects your daily life, such as being preoccupied with the lump or constantly worr...[Read More] Understanding Breast Nodules: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Axillary Lymph Node Enlargement: What You Need to Know
Axillary swelling? A month ago, during a routine breast examination, multiple lumps were found in both breasts. This time, the ultrasound examination revealed an enlarged lymph node in the right axilla measuring approximately 1.1 cm. The doctor mentioned that there is a 90% chanc...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello, Ms. Sakura: The axillary aspiration revealed breast tissue, which may indicate accessory breast tissue. However, lymph nodes and accessory breast tissue can usually be distinguished better on ultrasound, so the physician considers it to be uncommon. Follow-up in the outpat...[Read More] Understanding Axillary Lymph Node Enlargement: What You Need to Know
Understanding Breast Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice
Feeling small lumps in the chest? Hello Doctor: About two months ago, I noticed a small, movable lump in the lower inner part of my left breast while showering. It doesn't feel too hard, but it has a texture similar to a cord. It can be painful to the touch, especially close...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello: Sometimes it is just fibrocystic breast changes, but you should monitor for any persistent enlargement. If you are unsure, it is recommended to have an outpatient examination.[Read More] Understanding Breast Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Thyroid Nodules: Patient Concerns and Treatment Options
Thyroid nodule Hello Dr. Zhou: I am a patient with thyroid nodules. About 19 years ago, I had a colloid cyst on the left side of my thyroid, which was removed due to its large size as recommended by my doctor. Years later, approximately 2 years ago, I discovered swelling on the r...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello Ms. Chia: If a thyroid tumor continues to grow, surgical removal is generally recommended.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Nodules: Patient Concerns and Treatment Options