How Are Breast Problems Diagnosed?
For breast lumps, treatment and diagnosis are often related. For example, your doctor may insert a needle into a cyst and draw out fluid, both to examine the fluid and to get rid of the cyst. If the fluid is clear and the cyst disappears, your doctor will probably diagnose it as a benign cyst, and no further treatment is needed. Many doctors take the added precaution of having the fluid checked in a lab test. If a lump does not disappear and is still present after your next menstrual period, your doctor will want to re-examine you.
Fibroadenomas can be diagnosed only by biopsy. Surgical removal, usually in a same-day surgical procedure, is considered the only treatment if they are large or painful, but treatment is not always necessary.
Nipple adenomas are surgically removed because they are sometimes associated with breast cancer.
Intraductal papillomas are surgically removed before they grow large enough to block the milk ducts.
What Are the Treatments for Breast Problems?
Nutrition and Diet
A high fat diet and alcohol can both increase the risk of breast cancer. And even though there is no proof that diet can cause tumors, studies have shown a relationship. For instance, avoiding caffeine may help shrink breast cysts. And limiting fat to less than 20% of your total daily calories may help shrink or eliminate lumps.
To prevent and treat monthly breast swelling, your doctor may tell you to maintain a healthy weight and eat a balanced diet. Because salt can make the breasts swell, eat less salt near your period. Avoiding caffeine and related substances, such as methylxanthines (found in chocolate and tea), can ease breast pain.
If these treatments don't help, your doctor may prescribe a hormone such as danazol, which has been shown to ease breast pain. The cancer drug tamoxifen is also prescribed in rare cases. These drugs can have serious side effects. They are used rarely and only for severe symptoms. Do not use these drugs if you are trying to become pregnant.
For pain relief, apply heat to the breast with a heating pad or hot water bottle for 20 to 30 minutes. If you are using a heating pad, be sure to follow manufacturer's instructions and do not fall asleep.
Your doctor may suggest wearing a bra or sports bra, even 24 hours a day, to reduce breast movement and lessen the discomfort until the tenderness passes.