When Should I Be Concerned About a Breast Lump?

As a breast cancer awareness advocate, whenever I detect a lump in my breast, I immediately set up a doctor's visit. Early detection was a life-saver for me. Identifying and addressing breast lumps in a timely manner is crucial for ensuring optimal health and outcomes.

Understanding Breast Lumps

A breast lump is a growth or mass that develops in the breast or near the armpit area. These lumps can be as small as a pea or even several inches in size. They can feel soft and spongy, similar to a grape, or as hard as a rock. Lumps can also be:

Bumpy Moveable and can be rolled between the fingers Round or irregularly shaped

When to Worry

Not all lumps require immediate concern, but the following symptoms should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional:

Abnormal lumps: Lumps that feel different from the rest of your breast tissue and do not subside with time. Pain in the lump: Painful lumps should raise a red flag, although pain is not always an indicator of cancer; benign conditions can also cause pain. Changes in shape or size: Any noticeable change in the size or shape of your breast accompanied by a lump.

Causes of Breast Lumps

There are several common causes of breast lumps, including:

Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can form when fluid accumulates in the milk ducts. Fibrocystic changes: Benign changes in the breast tissue that can cause lumps or thickening. Fibroadenomas: Solid non-cancerous tumors commonly found in younger women aged 14 to 35 years. Phyllodes tumors: Rare tumors that can be either benign or malignant, and begin in the connective tissues of the breast. Breast infections: Infections such as mastitis can cause lumps and inflammation in the breast tissue. Breast cancer: While most breast lumps are benign, some can be cancerous. It is important to get any concerning lumps evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out the possibility of breast cancer.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you are feeling anything abnormal with your breasts, seek medical assistance. Your doctor will ask about symptoms and family history of breast cancer. A physical examination may also be performed. If there are unusual signs, you will be recommended for a few tests, including:

Ultrasound: An imaging test that sends sound waves to breasts, creating a comprehensive image. The doctor can use this to identify whether the lump is cancerous. Mammogram: An X-ray of the breast. During the test, you need to place your breasts on a plastic plate attached to the mammogram machine. Another plate will firmly press the breast from above until the X-ray is taken. Fine needle aspiration (FNA): A type of biopsy done through a small 21 to 25-gauge needle to take samples of breast tissue, which will be checked for cancer cells.

You may also be suggested for some other tests based on your symptoms and reports of the above-mentioned medical tests.

Early Detection is Key! Early detection of breast cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. While most breast lumps are benign, it is crucial not to delay seeking medical advice when something does not feel right. Regular breast self-exams and annual clinical breast exams can help you stay aware of any changes in your breasts.