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Fybrocystic Changes
Fibrocystic breast changes are the most common
cause of breast lumps. Fibrocystic breast lumps may be either cysts
(fluid-filled sacs surrounded by a fibrous tissue) or fibroadenomas
(benign solid lumps. These lumps are not caused by cancer).
How do fibrocystic breast changes occur?
The cause of fibrocystic breast changes is not known. Some research
indicates that estrogen and other hormones produced by the ovaries
may play a role. Other studies suggest that drinking beverages and
eating foods that contain caffeine and caffeine-like substances
(methylxanthines) may contribute to the development of fibrocystic
breast changes.
What are the symptoms of fibrocystic breast changes?
In some women, one or both breasts may develop lumps and become
tender during the week or so before the start of each menstrual
period. However, some women with fibrocystic changes experience
no pain but notice lumps or nodules within the breast during a self-breast
examination.
How are fibrocystic breast changes diagnosed?
Usually a doctor can diagnose fibrocystic changes with a physical
exam. To be sure of the diagnosis the doctor may recommend that
you get a mammogram or biopsy, or simply return for a re-examination
in 2 to 6 weeks, depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle.
How are fibrocystic breast changes treated?
For mild to moderate breast discomfort, a well-fitted bra with
good support may be all you need. To reduce the size of the lumps
or cysts or to prevent the formation of new lumps, your doctor may
suggest that you avoid caffeine and/or chocolate, or he/she may
recommend birth control pills. Evening primrose oil, available at
health food stores, helps reduce some women's breast symptoms. You
may also try taking a vitamin E or A supplement. Nonprescription
drugs, such as Tylenol or Advil, may be helpful for pain. If your
symptoms are severe, you may want to discuss the pros and cons of
the prescription drugs Bromocriptine and Danazol, which act to block
some of your naturally occurring hormones affecting the breasts.
These medications could potentially reduce your symptoms.
Some cysts can be treated in your doctor's office by aspiration.
In this procedure, after being given a local anesthetic, fluid in
the lump is removed with a needle attached to a syringe. If the
lump does not disappear completely after aspiration, your doctor
should reevaluate it. He/she might then recommend a mammogram and
biopsy.
How long will the effects last?
Women with fibrocystic breast changes have lumps that get larger
and smaller but never disappear. There is no known cure for this
disorder, but it is not harmful. Fibrocystic breast changes do not
increase your risk of breast cancer.
How can I take care of myself?
You can care for yourself by doing monthly breast self-exams,
having a yearly exam by a doctor, and getting screening mammograms
as advised by your doctor.
Because lumps can be a symptom of either fibrocystic breast changes
or cancer, it is important to see the doctor when:
- you have not had a breast exam in over a year
- new lumps appear
- an existing lump changes in some way
- unexplained breast symptoms develop, such
as dimpling of the skin of the breast or discharge
How can I prevent fibrocystic breast changes?
To prevent fibrocystic breast changes, some doctors advise avoiding
foods and beverages that contain caffeine, such as coffee, tea,
cola, and chocolate.
The importance of performing monthly breast self-exams and having
your doctor do a yearly breast exam cannot be overemphasized.
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