Every woman fears finding a breast lump during a routine breast self exam. While finding any lump in the breast is disconcerting, not all lumps are dangerous or pose any health concerns whatsoever. It is crucial to report any lumps to a qualified medical care provider, as soon as they are discovered, in order to diagnose the nature of the lump and receive any treatment which may be necessary.
This guide helps women to deal with the sensitive topic of lumps in the breast and what they should do to maintain healthy breasts for life.
Malignant Breast Lump
The worst type of lump which can be found in the breast is the embodiment of fear: breast cancer. There are many types of cancerous growths and tumors which can manifest themselves inside the breast mound:
Noninvasive tumors are also called In situ cancers. This cancer is most often discovered in the milk ducts and is called DCIS. This is a very treatable form of breast cancer.
Invasive breast cancers typically begin in either the milk ducts, or less commonly, the lobules. Invasive (also called infiltrative) cancers spread to surrounding localized tissues in the breast and might also spread to other areas of the body (called metastasis).
In situ cancers usually represent the best case scenario, while infiltrating metastasizing tumors embody the worst.
Non-Cancerous Breast Masses
Among the various types of benign growths typically found in the breast, three stand out as the most prevalent:
Fibroadenomas are often found in the breast and most commonly are completely asymptomatic and harmless. If they are a worry, or present an issue for appearance or feel, they can be removed surgically.
Cysts can form virtually anywhere in the body and are virtually always harmless. They usually do not require any treatment, but can be removed in they are bothersome or unaesthetic.
Scar tissue and possible debris from breast implants can be palpated inside the breast. These are found in women who have undergone plastic surgery of the breast or women who have suffered an injury or breast trauma. Scarring and debris may or may not be problematic. These concerns are also sometimes called pseudolumps.
Breast Lump Detection
It is crucial to maintain a regular program of breast self exam. If you find a lump, bump or hardened region of tissue, do not be afraid of seeking treatment.
Many women fear the diagnosis worse than the bump itself and remain silent after finding a potentially dangerous growth. Remember that the majority of lumps turn out to be benign and even cancerous lumps can be treated more successfully than ever before. It is always better to know, than not to know.
If you have discovered a lump, act now. Do not wait or delay in seeking help.
If the worst case scenario exists, every day counts. Early treatment is vital for achieving the best breast cancer treatment results. Please, contact your doctor if you even suspect that anything is wrong with your breasts.
