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What is a Breast Lump?

A breast lump is an area of tissue in the breast that feels different from the surrounding tissue. It might feel like a swelling, bump, or thickened area and can develop in one or both breasts. Breast lumps are quite common and can occur for a variety of reasons.

What Causes Breast Lumps?

Hormonal Changes

Hormones related to your menstrual cycle can cause lumps that come and go. These are often harmless and linked to fibrocystic breast changes.

Fibroadenomas

These are benign (non-cancerous) tumours that feel smooth, firm, and movable. They’re most common in women under 30.

Cysts

Fluid-filled sacs in the breast tissue, often caused by hormonal changes. They can feel soft or firm and may become tender during your menstrual cycle.

Infections (Mastitis)

Inflammation or infection in the breast, common in breastfeeding mothers, can cause painful lumps.

Breast Cancer

While most lumps aren’t cancerous, some can be. Cancerous lumps are often hard, irregular in shape, and don’t move easily.

What Signs Indicate a Breast Lump?

  • A thick spot or lump in your breast or underarm.
  • Pain or tenderness where the lump is located.
  • Modifications to your breast’s dimensions, form, or look.
  • The discharge from the breasts, which may be milky, transparent, or stained with blood.
  • Breast edema, redness, or warmth (infections).

When Is the Right Time to See a Doctor?

Seeking medical advice is crucial if you observe:

  • A lump that feels different from the rest of your breast or that is firm or asymmetrical.
  • Any modifications to your breasts’ dimensions, form, or symmetry.
  • Changes to the breasts, such inversion, discharge, or redness.
  • Breast swelling, redness, or dimpling of the skin (like an orange peel).
  • Early diagnosis and, if required, therapy initiation might be facilitated by early evaluation.

How Are Breast Lumps Diagnosed?

When you visit the doctor, they may recommend the following steps to evaluate the lump:

  1. Physical Exam – The doctor will feel the lump and examine the surrounding breast tissue to check for abnormalities.
  2. Imaging Tests
    • Mammogram: An X-ray of the breast to look for unusual growths.
    • Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to determine if the lump is solid or fluid-filled.
    • MRI: Provides detailed images of the breast tissue.
  3. Biopsy – If the doctor suspects something unusual, they may recommend a biopsy. A small sample of tissue is taken from the lump and tested in a lab.

What Are the Treatment Options for Breast Lumps?

  1. Medications – Infections like mastitis can be treated with antibiotics.
  2. Aspiration – Aspiration of a breast lump is a medical procedure where a doctor uses a thin, hollow needle to remove some fluid or tissue from a lump in the breast. This procedure is usually done to help find out if the lump is benign (non-cancerous) or something more serious, like cancer. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the procedure works, explained in simple terms:
  3. Surgical Removal – Removing the lumps through surgery
How to Reduce the Risk of Breast Lumps? While not all breast lumps can be prevented, some steps can reduce your risk:
  • Perform regular breast self-exams to familiarize yourself with what’s normal for your breasts.
  • Schedule routine mammograms as recommended by your doctor.
  • Maintain a healthy weight and follow a balanced diet.
  • Limit alcohol intake and avoid smoking.
  • Stay physically active.

Why Choose LifePlus Hospital for Breast Lump Care?

At LifePlus Hospital, we understand how stressful finding a breast lump can be. That’s why we provide:

Expert Consultation:

Our experienced doctors and specialists offer compassionate care and thorough evaluations.

Advanced Diagnostics:

We use state-of-the-art imaging and biopsy techniques to diagnose breast lumps quickly and accurately.

Comprehensive Care:

Whether your lump is benign or requires further treatment, we offer personalized solutions tailored to your needs.

Supportive Environment:

Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, providing both medical expertise and emotional support.

Take Charge of Your Health

If you’ve noticed a lump in your breast or are concerned about any changes, don’t wait. Early diagnosis can make a world of difference. Book an appointment with our specialists at LifePlus Hospital today and let us help you find answers and peace of mind.

Have Questions? We're Here-Reach out to us!

While most breast lumps are benign, some characteristics may raise concerns for breast cancer. The following features should prompt further evaluation by a doctor:

  • Hard texture: A lump that feels solid, not soft or spongy.
  • Irregular shape: Lumps that are uneven or have jagged edges.
  • Fixed to surrounding tissue: A lump that doesn't move when you try to move it.
  • Painless: While breast cancer lumps can sometimes be painful, many are not.
  • Changes in the skin: Skin dimpling, redness, or puckering around the lump.
  • Changes in nipple: Inverted or retracted nipple, or discharge from the nipple (especially if it is blood-stained).

However, many benign conditions (like cysts or fibroadenomas) can have similar characteristics, which is why it’s important to seek medical advice and get proper testing.

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