Cysts are fluid-filled “sacs” in the breast. Persistent pains or pains associated with any mass or lump require evaluation by a physician.īreast cysts are very commonly seen as a component of fibrocystic change. For more severe cases, hormonal agents may also be indicated. Relaxation techniques and acupuncture may be helpful, but studies are limited. Flaxseed and chaste berry may provide relief. Vitamin E, B-complex vitamins, and evening primrose oil have also shown benefit in some patients in treating persistent pain, but none have been proven effective in placebo-controlled clinical trials. If no specific abnormality is found, simple maneuvers such as reducing the intake of caffeine, salt, and tobacco, wearing a supportive bra, and using over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen during the premenstrual period will help to control symptoms. Often, a mammogram or ultrasound will be done to ensure that there is no mass or other specific lesion causing the pain. Pulled chest wall muscles, pinched nerves, or costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage of the ribcage) may also cause pain which appears to originate in the breasts.Ĭareful history and examination can usually rule out a significant cause of the pain. Evaluation to rule out a specific mass or cyst is indicated, but most times, the pains are not related to any specific lesions (including cancer) and often resolve over time. The pains may be fairly constant and “aching” in nature or may be sharp, burning, or stabbing in character. Often, only one breast will have pain, and it may be localized to a single pinpoint area. Non-cyclic mastalgia refers to pains that are not related to the menstrual period. Usually, the pains resolve after the menstrual period begins. The pains are at times severe, and most commonly occur in the upper outer breast and may also extend to the nipple or underarm. The pain is often cyclic, occurring in relation to the menstrual period. The medical term for breast pain is mastalgia or mastodynia. The most common component of fibrocystic change is breast pain. Previously, women were labeled as having “fibrocystic disease”, but the term “disease” is no longer used, as fibrocystic changes are common and are often a result of the glandular breast’s response to hormonal fluctuation. The phrase “fibrocystic breast condition” is commonly used when referring to lumps, cysts, nipple discharge, and pain.
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