Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and Connections to Arm Discomfort
The outer left chest often feels like a strained pain? I am a patient with muscle atrophy and have been sitting in a wheelchair for an extended period. My left hand often rests on the armrest of the wheelchair to support the weight of my upper body. Could this cause the persisten...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Hello, 1. The sensation of something in the armpit may be related to lymphadenopathy. As for the pain when pressing on the left arm, it may sometimes be associated with lymphadenopathy or cervical nerve issues. If symptoms persist, it is recommended to follow up at an outpatien...[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and Connections to Arm Discomfort
Understanding Breast Lumps: Concerns About Cancer and Benign Conditions
Breast lump Hello Dr. Zhou, I have recently noticed a hard lump in the center above my right nipple when lying down. The sensation feels different compared to the left side, and I'm unsure if it's a lump or just a larger area. There is slight pain when I press on it, an...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Hello, 1. Use your index and middle fingers to perform a self-examination of your breasts, feeling for any firm lumps that do not move. Everyone's sensation may differ, so rely on your own feelings. If you suspect something like a tumor, monitor it for any changes, such as...[Read More] Understanding Breast Lumps: Concerns About Cancer and Benign Conditions
Understanding White Bumps on Nipples: Causes and Concerns
Something that resembles acne? After taking a shower, I noticed small white bumps on my areolas and nipples that resemble pimples. When I squeeze them, a white, comedone-like discharge comes out. Additionally, when I press on my breasts, I feel small, round lumps. What could be t...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Hello, 1. The small, pimple-like lesions on the skin are often due to overactive sebaceous glands that can become partially obstructed, leading to the accumulation of fluid or secretions. When expressed, they may release a white discharge, which is usually benign but can be pro...[Read More] Understanding White Bumps on Nipples: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Breast Cancer Genetics: Should You Get Tested?
Breast cancer genetics Hello, my maternal grandmother and aunt have undergone surgery for unknown tumors near their breasts, and reports indicate a high hereditary rate of breast cancer genes among relatives. Should I (a male) and my sister undergo genetic testing? What is the li...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Hello, 1. In principle, men do not need to undergo genetic testing. 2. As for women, whether they should undergo genetic testing depends on their individual mindset. If they are mentally prepared for preventive mastectomy, it may be beneficial; otherwise, it may only increase ...[Read More] Understanding Breast Cancer Genetics: Should You Get Tested?
Understanding White Discharge from Breasts: Causes and Concerns
White milk-like fluid Recently, I noticed that when I accidentally press on my chest and nipples while showering, a white milky fluid comes out. I'm not sure why this is happening. My child is over 10 months old, and I breastfed for six months. I'm worried that there mi...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Hello, generally, ductal hyperplasia can cause milk secretion, and sometimes there are fibrocystic changes. If there are any changes in color or odor, it is advisable to seek an outpatient examination as soon as possible. Wishing you peace and health. Director of Surgery, Taoyuan...[Read More] Understanding White Discharge from Breasts: Causes and Concerns
Can Essential Oils and Herbal Remedies Affect Breast Tumors?
Breast tumor I would like to ask if I have a benign breast tumor, can I use clary sage essential oil to massage my breasts? Will it have any effect on the tumor? What other options can I use for breast massage? Also, does taking traditional Chinese medicine have any effect on the...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Hello, massage can stimulate tumors, but changes in tumor size are mostly related to hormonal fluctuations within the body. It is important to pay attention to diet and lifestyle factors that can affect hormonal changes. Regular outpatient check-ups are recommended. As for tradit...[Read More] Can Essential Oils and Herbal Remedies Affect Breast Tumors?
Should You Worry About Breast Changes During Breastfeeding?
Breast ultrasound Hello: My wife has just given birth and is breastfeeding. I've noticed some small spots on her breasts while she is nursing. Should we be concerned and does she need to get it checked?
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Dear Yi-De, Hello. I am unsure whether the lesion is raised or flat, and whether there is any redness, swelling, or itching. Due to the limited information, I cannot provide a detailed explanation. However, the general principle is to observe whether it is persistent and progres...[Read More] Should You Worry About Breast Changes During Breastfeeding?
Breast Ultrasound vs. Mammogram: Pain Levels and Key Differences
Breast ultrasound What is the difference between breast ultrasound and mammography? Will it be very painful?
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Dear Yide, Breast ultrasound: There is no issue with radiation exposure, and it is not very painful. It requires careful manual operation and can be performed on all age groups. However, the resolution is poorer for breasts with more abundant fatty tissue; conversely, it has bet...[Read More] Breast Ultrasound vs. Mammogram: Pain Levels and Key Differences
Understanding Breast Lumps: What You Need to Know About Symptoms and Concerns
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 ask about the hard areas I feel when I lie down and palpate my breasts in a clockwise direction; they feel q...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Dear Xiao Bu, 1. Lymph nodes are generally not palpable; those that can be felt are mostly due to infections. However, if there are lymph nodes in the axillary and groin regions, it is advisable to seek further examination at an outpatient clinic to rule out any lymphatic tumors...[Read More] Understanding Breast Lumps: What You Need to Know About Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Breast Lumps: Fatty Tissue or Something More?
Breast lump I have noticed that there are similar hard lumps inside both of my breasts, and they are quite large, almost slightly smaller than the breasts themselves. They don't hurt when I squeeze them. Are these lumps fat, hard masses, or something else? I've had them...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Dear Xiao V, Hello. 1. It should refer to the "glandular tissue of the breast," so when performing breast self-examinations, do not pinch; instead, use a rolling motion to check for any actual lumps or protrusions. 2. You may visit a breast surgery outpatient clini...[Read More] Understanding Breast Lumps: Fatty Tissue or Something More?
Understanding Breast and Thyroid Lumps: Causes, Concerns, and Care
Breast "lumps" and "nodules" felt in the thyroid gland? Hello, I discovered a small hard lump under my right breast in mid-September, which was slightly painful to the touch. At the same time, I also found a hard mass on the right side of my neck, and the simu...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Dear Xiao Cai, 1. There should be no problem. 2. Regarding the breast lump: (1) You can perform self-examinations to monitor any changes in the lump; if it increases in size or if you experience symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. (2) The breasts can be affe...[Read More] Understanding Breast and Thyroid Lumps: Causes, Concerns, and Care
Understanding Breast Inflammation: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Mastitis Hello Doctor: After my menstrual period started, I noticed that only my right breast has reduced swelling, while my left breast remains swollen and painful. (There is no fever, and there is no redness or heat.) I visited a breast surgeon on Monday, and after a physical e...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Hello, the symptoms are mostly caused by hormonal imbalances in the body. If there is no fever and no redness or swelling in the breasts, symptomatic treatment is sufficient (pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications). In addition to medication, it is important to pay atte...[Read More] Understanding Breast Inflammation: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Is It Normal for Nipples to Not Protrude During Breast Development?
Nipple inversion Hello doctor, I would like to ask if it is normal that my nipples have not protruded until now? My breasts are gradually getting larger, but the nipples have not become prominent. Is this normal?
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Hello, approximately 3% of women have congenital nipple inversion issues. Most cases only require monitoring for any lumps beneath the nipple or worsening of the nipple inversion, along with maintaining cleanliness. It is advisable to consult a breast surgeon for examination. Wis...[Read More] Is It Normal for Nipples to Not Protrude During Breast Development?
Understanding Armpit Pain Before Menstruation: When to See a Doctor
Is it normal to experience some pain in the armpit a week before menstruation? I have never experienced armpit pain before my period, but this time, a week before my period, I felt some pain when pressing on my left armpit, and there is a slight swelling. My breasts feel full but...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Dear Jojo, Hello. The stimulation of ovarian hormones before or during menstruation can lead to the proliferation of breast tissue, causing swelling and even discomfort or pain. The swelling and tenderness in the armpit may be due to accessory breast tissue. If the symptoms pers...[Read More] Understanding Armpit Pain Before Menstruation: When to See a Doctor
Understanding Breast Development: Concerns and Myths for Teens
My breasts have not grown since I was in the first year of junior high school! During middle school, which is typically a period of development, I started wearing a student-style bra from the first year of junior high. I even wore it to sleep! Later on, I noticed that my breasts ...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Dear Han, Hello. The development of breasts is related to the stimulation of female hormones in the body. If there is insufficient secretion of female hormones, it can affect breast development. Wearing a bra too early does not hinder breast development. Furthermore, there is no...[Read More] Understanding Breast Development: Concerns and Myths for Teens
Breast Pain and Lumps in a 14-Year-Old: When to Seek Medical Advice
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 ...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
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 whethe...[Read More] Breast Pain and Lumps in a 14-Year-Old: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Breast Health: Common Concerns and Cancer Symptoms
Regarding the breasts? Hello Dr. Zhao: I would like to ask you a few questions regarding my breasts. My right breast is smaller, which may also be related to scoliosis, making it appear smaller. Both nipples have a milky white discharge, and the center of the nipples is indented ...
Dr. Zhao Ming Reply:
Please schedule an appointment with the breast surgery department. Wishing you well.[Read More] Understanding Breast Health: Common Concerns and Cancer Symptoms
Understanding Ductal Hyperplasia: Should You Consider Surgery?
Ductal hyperplasia Hello Doctor: I have had varying sizes of cysts in both of my breasts for about three years. I undergo aspiration and fluid analysis every six months, and all results have been benign, so my doctor has advised me to continue monitoring every six months. The las...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Ms. Yellow, 1. A cyst is a common benign tumor of the breast. Unless there are symptoms, it is generally sufficient to monitor it regularly. However, if there are changes in shape or if there are unknown tissues within the cyst, surgical intervention may sometimes be necess...[Read More] Understanding Ductal Hyperplasia: Should You Consider Surgery?
Understanding Breast Health: Questions About Fibrosis and Surgery Options
Breast I have a lump and fibrosis in my breast. I went to the hospital for a breast examination, and after three needle biopsies, the doctor said to follow up every six months. I have the following questions: 1. Can I have my breast removed so that I don't need to follow up ...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen Reply:
Hello, breast lumps and fibrosis are common breast issues among women. In principle, follow-up should be done every six months to a year. It is not necessary to perform prophylactic mastectomy to monitor for the occurrence of cancer, unless the woman has a family history of cance...[Read More] Understanding Breast Health: Questions About Fibrosis and Surgery Options
Understanding Breast Asymmetry: Is It Normal or a Cause for Concern?
Not sure if it's a lump???? Hello doctor, my breasts are about a B cup, but my right breast is significantly smaller than my left, which is even lower. The issue is that my smaller right breast feels somewhat uneven overall, and I can't feel any obvious lumps, especiall...
Dr. Xie Wenhuai Reply:
The breast consists of skin, subcutaneous fat, and breast tissue. If pressed with fingers, one may feel a lump, which is normal breast tissue, especially noticeable in women who have given birth after marriage. If there is a lump within the breast tissue, it can usually be felt b...[Read More] Understanding Breast Asymmetry: Is It Normal or a Cause for Concern?