Breast Cysts
Cysts are harmless, fluid-filled bubbles found in the breast tissue. While most develop quickly and maintain their size, some may continue to grow or, in some cases, shrink.
Often, they’ll be too small to feel, but will show up on an ultrasound scan. They’re very common, particularly in women between the ages of 30 and 50, and many women will have more than one.
While they don’t pose a risk to your health, cysts can be both uncomfortable or painful, with tenderness particularly noticeable in the days just before a period.
As with any changes in your breast, you should book an appointment to get it checked out.
Frequently Asked Question
While breast cysts can often have no symptoms, signs to look out for include:
- An increase in both size and tenderness just before your period
- A decrease in both size and tenderness just after your period
- A round or oval lump, often smooth, that’s easily movable
- Nipple discharge
- Tenderness or discomfort around the lump
Noticing a change in the breast, particularly a lump can be worrying and upsetting for many of us. Similarly, while straightforward, diagnostic tests can feel invasive and bring their own stresses with them.
Ms Varghese understands this, and her practice is built around putting your mind at ease and making you feel comfortable throughout your consultation.
First, she’ll talk to you about your medical history, and any concerns you might have. Then she’ll carry out a physical examination, after which a mammogram or ultrasound will help to get a diagnosis.
Occasionally, when a cyst is too small to feel and is discovered after a routine mammogram or ultrasound, then no treatment is necessary.
If the cyst is large, then draining it is an option. This can help relieve the stress of feeling a lump as well as reducing any potential discomfort. The procedure involves drawing out the fluid from the cyst with a needle. In the majority of cases, this is a painless procedure, and any discomfort you may feel is over very quickly.
Normally, drained cysts require no further treatment, however, in some cases, they can come back. If that happens, don’t worry. The cysts aren’t dangerous and treatment is the same – straightforward and simple.
If you’ve found a lump, would like to find out more, or want to book a consultation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’ll do everything we can to help and put you at ease.
