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Do Breast Lumps Always Equal Breast Cancer?
Finding
a lump in your breast is a frightening experience. Fortunately,
most breast lumps - - particularly those that develop before
menopause - - are not cancerous.
Of course, if a lump is cancerous, the only thing worse than finding it is not find-ing it. Early detection is key to successful treatment. It's important to discuss with your doctor any changes you notice in your breasts.
Knowing some basic facts about breast lumps is a good idea, too, and may help put your mind at ease.
The Truth About Breast Lumps
1. The best time for a premenopausal woman to examine
her breasts is the first day of her menstrual period. True / False
2. A woman's breasts are more likely to feel lumpy during her 30s and 40s. True / False
3. Cancerous lumps are often rock hard. True / False
Check Your Answers
1. False. Normal
breast changes during the menstrual cycle often create lumpy
breasts. That's why it's best to examine your breasts about a
week after your period ends. After menopause, women can just
pick a predetermined day each month.
2. True. Breast lumpiness, a noncancerous condition, is different than a breast lump. At least 60 percent of women younger than age 50 have lumpy breasts - - and it usually becomes noticeable after age 30.
Lumpy breasts result from the constant hormonal ebb and flow that women experience. Described as feeling ropy or granular, breast lumpiness often occurs in both breasts.
While not considered a serious problem, breast lumpiness can cause discomfort and pain. For painful breasts, a woman might try avoiding caffeine, taking over-the-counter pain relievers and applying a heating pad. Wearing a support bra also might help.
3. True. Cancerous lumps also tend to be difficult to move when you push them with your fingertips. However, only a doctor can tell you for sure whether a lump is cancerous.
Several noncancerous conditions also can cause breast lumps:
Breast cysts. A fluid-filled sac - - a cyst - - usually feels smooth and firm, but is easy to move. Cysts often occur in both breasts at the same time. Of various sizes, cysts are most common in women ages 35 to 50.
Fibroadenomas. A solid yet somewhat rubbery lump, a fibroadenoma can usually be moved around. They most often occur in young women.
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