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Breast Disease : Fibrocystic |
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Fibrocystic breast disease is the most common type of breast disorder. This condition is caused by hormones acting on the glandular tissue of the breast. Sixty to 70 percent of women develop these changes by age 50. After menopause, the fibrocystic changes nearly disappear.
The main complaints of women with fibrocystic changes include: - breasts that feel full, or heavy, with a range of dull, heavy pain, and tenderness
- breast tissue that feels lumpy, or has an irregular or bumpy texture
- nipple sensation changes, such as itching and
- premenstrual tenderness and swelling
These symptoms may range from mild to severe. They peak just before each menstrual period and improve right after the period ends. To minimise the symptoms: - reduce or exclude caffeine, as found in chocolate, tea, coffee, and cola
- limit your intake of salt
- follow a low-fat diet and
- eat a high fibre diet that includes many fruits and vegetables, beans and peas, raw seeds and nuts, and whole grains
Besides dietary changes, other things used to treat this problem include oral contraceptive pills, vitamin B1 and E, and evening primrose oil. A good support bra also gives comfort. Women who find a lump in a breast should seek medical testing. A mammogram may be needed to make sure there is not a more serious problem. A needle sample of your lump may reveal simple fluid. A larger sample or biopsy may be needed in some cases. Fibrocystic changes do not cause cancer, however having fibrocystic disease makes it difficult to detect other more serious abnormalities, so regular checks need to be done. Fibrocystic lumps can be tender to the touch and move freely. You may need help to perform regular breast self-examinations. See your doctor about learning how to perform a breast self-examination. Depending on your age and your family history or personal medical history, regular mammograms or ultrasounds may need to be done. Article #7109 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
