By Dr. Kathleen Ruddy
Breast fibrosis is due to hormonal fluctuations. It is a common condition wherein the breast tissue will feel rubbery or firm. Though it resembles breast cancer in its symptoms, the lumps are not cancerous. As Americans become aware of the implications of breast cancer, such lumps are taken for biopsy. Luckily, most biopsies in United States revealed benign breast condition and not cancer.
Fibrosis and Cyst
Fibrocystic changes in women are largely attributed to hormones. The breast becomes lumpy and pain or discomfort is experienced in one or both breasts that usually occurs before the menstruation starts. It can be alarming because the lump is either rubbery or hard and can appear as small or large, but it is not a disease but a harmless condition. This state can also happen to postmenopausal women due to lack of hormone stimulus of breast tissue.
Duct Ectasia
Mammary duct ectasia is a normal part of aging. Women will have nipple discharges that are thick and sticky or inflammation of clogged duct can be experienced. Breast tissue can also turn red and tender to touch. In some cases, nipples are pulled inward when the ducts shorten. Patients can apply warm compress and take antibiotics to improve the condition.
DID YOU KNOW?
Breast cancer can sometimes develop due to less popular reasons. Lack of exercise is linked to higher risk of breast cancer while individuals who are engaged in regular exercise are less prone to this condition. Another factor is insufficient vitamin D. Vitamin D helps in controlling normal breast cell growth. Additionally, overexposure to chemicals in sunscreen can also lead to cancer symptoms. The American Cancer Society recommends breast self-exam once a month for women who are in their 20s and above. This act will help you to know your body more. Unusual changes should be relayed promptly to your doctor to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Fat Necrosis
Fat necrosis is a benign breast state. When the breast tissue does not receive enough oxygenated blood, the cell will die. Lumps are then formed when scar tissues form in the dead cell or when the dying cell releases a greasy fluid called oil cyst. In a mammogram, fat necrosis will resemble like a carcinoma so to be sure, MRI or ultrasound is recommended.
Mastisis
Mastisis is an infection that occurs after three months of giving birth or when breastfeeding. Breast swelling, warmth and redness of the affected area will be observed. This condition is sometimes due to the bacteria in the infant’s mouth, which enters the milk duct through a fissure in the nipple.
Benign Phyllodes Tumor
This type of tumor can sometimes grow large, firm, round and is movable. Although they are not painful, some women prefer them to be removed through surgery. A benign phyllodes tumor usually occurs in women between 30 and 50 years of age.
Women may experience breast fibrocystic changes in one point of their life. It can cause discomfort or pain. When such things happen, a thorough diagnosis has to be performed like breast biopsy or mammogram to rule out cancer. Dietary factors and alcohol intake should also be taken into consideration. There is really no direct collaboration with cancer and healthy lifestyle but in the long run, a healthy mind and body is less likely to get into other illnesses.
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