October is breast cancer awareness month, so learn more about different types of breast concerns. Fibrocystic breast disease does not mean breast cancer. It is breast tissue that has developed lumps and tenderness and often other symptoms, such as achiness, a heavy feeling and sometimes a discharge from the nipple.
These lumps in fibrocystic breast disease are actually normal breast tissue that has become swollen or more sensitive than normal. Ingesting increased amounts of caffeine, salt and fat in the diet are apt to make the symptoms of fibrocystic disease worse.
The two goals in treating fibrocystic breast disease are treating the discomfort and making sure that the lumps do not contain cancer. Making sure there is no cancer is often an ongoing problem.
There are several steps in ruling out cancer. The first is by doing monthly self-breast exams and having annual exams by your doctor.
A mammogram is also important. Unfortunately, the dense breast tissue in fibrocystic breast disease makes it difficult to be absolutely sure there is no cancer. Often lumps must be biopsied since neither the exam nor the mammogram can give a definitive answer.
If there is a fluid-filled cyst in the breast, it can be drained with a needle. Sometimes the cyst recurs. If it does, it should usually be biopsied to make sure there is not an underlying cancer.
In treating the symptoms, the first step is to make dietary changes. Cutting down on caffeine, salt, and fat in the diet can help many women. Pain medicines can also be used, and a supportive bra is often helpful.
This health article was provided by Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center. Call (843) 339-4563 for more information. Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center …quality healthcare, close to home.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement