The pimples on a woman’s nipples are rudimentary glands, the functions of which have not yet been studied. They often have a negative impact on the appearance of the breasts, and can also bring significant discomfort to the woman. How normal is this process and why does this happen? There can be a lot of reasons: from standard changes in hormonal levels to an infectious disease. These are the ones that need to be examined in more detail.

What do the pimples around the nipple mean?

The tubercles in the area of ​​the areola of the juice are modified sebaceous glands. The tubercles in the nipple area secrete a secretion, but what it is intended for is not completely clear. One version is that this lubricant, which contains a lot of fat, serves to protect the areola from drying out. Another version says that these secretions from the glands have bactericidal properties. In many cases, it was noticed that milk came out from these tubercles on the nipples during pregnancy.

One of the most interesting versions is that it is believed that there is a direct dependence of the number of tubercles on the characteristics of baby food. After conducting a series of studies, it was possible to establish the presence in this liquid of substances that direct the baby’s sense of smell to them, such a kind of natural taste enhancer. At the moment, scientific work is being carried out on the artificial synthesis of this substance for further use in accustoming premature babies to breastfeeding.

Why do bumps appear and when does this happen?

There are many reasons for the appearance of unattractive protrusions in the nipple area. Here are some that are considered the most common:

• presence of Montgomery tubercles;
• tubercles formed in response to changes in hormonal levels (most often occurs during puberty and during pregnancy);
• blockage of the sebaceous glands with secretions (acne);
• pathological diseases of the skin (eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis);
• allergic reactions.

Similar rashes occur in women of different age categories and in varying quantities. They can be single, several on the nipple, or they can be multiple, filling a large area of ​​the areola. They look like a point that protrudes slightly above the surface of the skin and surrounds the nipple.

It is common to see up to 15 pimples on one breast.

When pimples appear in the last stages of pregnancy, this indicates the imminent arrival of milk, and as is already known, there is an opinion that the more units surround the nipple area, the more milk the new mother will have.

The appearance of this phenomenon during pregnancy is due to hormonal changes in the body of the expectant mother. These bumps are clearly visible throughout the entire breastfeeding phase. However, when the moment of lactation passes, Montgomery succumbs to regression and passes without a trace.

The appearance or increase in the number of tubercles, in some cases, is the first examination of the onset of pregnancy. In some pregnant women, they become inflamed from the very first days after conception, becoming the primary source of successful fertilization of the egg.

If such pimples appear as a result of pregnancy, then women should not worry; their presence in this case is considered normal and does not cause any harm to health, and also does not require treatment. Some women try to squeeze out the contents of the bumps, but this manipulation is unsafe, since through open pores there is an increased likelihood of infection and subsequently harmless bumps will cause a lot of problems and lead to complications.

There are incidents in which an inflammatory process occurs in the tubercles, which is quite common. A mammologist or gynecologist can diagnose such a problem. During inflammation, the tubercles turn red and pain is present. At the first manifestations, a chamomile decoction will be useful; it can cope with the initial stage. But if symptoms do not disappear, you should consult a doctor. It is not advisable to expose your breasts to overheating or apply hot compresses; these are favorable conditions for the development of bacteria. If an inflammatory process occurs during breastfeeding, breastfeeding should be stopped for a while until a definitive diagnosis is made.

Abnormal causes

In addition to natural physiological causes, there are also pathological deviations, as a result of which pimples appear on the nipples. There are several types of this pathology:

Treatment of pimples and bumps on the nipples

Of course, to initially solve the problem, a correct diagnosis must be made. A visit to a dermatologist or mammologist will help in this matter; if the inflammation coincides with the period of pregnancy, then a consultation with a gynecologist will be enough. Often a woman worries in vain about an ordinary mole that does not cause harm or discomfort. But there are also formations that do not require delay in treatment. Some manifestations are difficult to detect with the naked eye, and only a professional can handle this.

Montgomery's bumps are normal and do not require treatment. If there is inflammation, redness, pain and discharge of purulent contents, it is better not to delay the visit to the doctor. For such symptoms, physiotherapy, ointments with an antiseptic effect, and homeopathic remedies may be prescribed.

Treatment of eczema involves individual selection of the most effective technique, since the causes of this pathology are purely personal for each patient. Whether it is chronic diseases of internal organs or mental disorders, it is necessary to conduct tests, based on the results of which therapy is selected.

Drug treatment may consist of antihistamines, sedatives and immunomodulating drugs, as well as ointments or creams for external use that relieve itching, inflammation and irritation.

Acne can be easily removed with basic personal hygiene rules and the correct selection of cosmetics and underwear. Shower gels can have a slightly drying effect, and underwear is made from natural fabrics that allow air to circulate without difficulty.

Along with drug treatment, you should slightly adjust your usual routine. It is recommended to follow a diet. Include foods rich in vitamins in your diet, consume more vegetables, fruits, grains, replace steamed dishes with fried ones. And try to eat at the same time. It is better to give up fatty, smoked, sugar and baked goods. And also maintain daily hygiene. It is good to use tar soap several times a week, and the result will not be long in coming.

When it comes to clothing sizes, the first necessary parameter is chest volume. When women's beauty is mentioned, much attention is paid to the breasts.

When they talk about motherhood, they certainly talk about breastfeeding. And even a conversation about women's health is not complete without clarifying the condition of the mammary glands. But, unfortunately, not every woman knows everything she needs about her breasts and cannot always correctly assess the condition of her mammary glands.

What are Montgomery tubercles?

It's no secret that the mammary glands have a nipple and a nipple space - the so-called areola, which differs from the rest of the skin in its pigmentation.

In addition, small bumps can sometimes be found on the halos located around the nipples, most often about ten, although their number can range from four to almost three dozen.

It is these formations that are called Montgomery's tubercles - after the name of the obstetrician William Montgomery, who first described them, who worked in the 19th century. Of course, such tubercles on the areolas existed before, but their study began only about a century and a half ago. During this time, obstetricians-gynecologists conducted many observations, as a result of which we can confidently say that:

1. Montgomery's tubercles develop most actively during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
2. Typically, non-pregnant and non-lactating women develop fewer Montgomery tubercles.
3. After childbirth and the end of lactation, the development of Montgomery tubercles most often stops, and the areola becomes the same as it was before pregnancy.

Researchers have come to a general consensus that Montgomery's tubercles are rudimentary formations, but their nature is not fully understood: some researchers believe that Montgomery's tubercles were formed from mammary glands, while others suggest that previously these formations were sebaceous glands that secrete a special secretion (the so-called lipoid factor). The peculiarity of the lipoid factor, according to researchers, is that it is able to some extent protect the areola around the nipple from drying out and from bacterial infection, since it has bactericidal properties.

Scientists who are of the opinion that there used to be mammary glands in the place of the Montgomery tubercles argue their point of view by the fact that their appearance is associated with pregnancy (they can appear from the first days of pregnancy) and that a special role in their development belongs to hormonal changes in the body, which regulate changes in the breast (mammary glands) to ensure adequate breastfeeding of the baby.

Photo of Montgomery tubercles

However, no matter what point of view the researchers adhere to regarding the origin of the Montgomery tubercles, they all unanimously claim that this is a rudimentary formation. But still, some scientists suggest that, despite their rudimentary nature, the Montgomery glands have not completely lost their positive meaning.

To prove this theory, in France, at the National Research Center of Dijon, they conducted a special study during which they monitored the breastfeeding activity of infants and their development, while noting the number of Montgomery tubercles on the areola of the mother's mammary gland. After the end of the study, it was concluded that the more tubercles there were in the areola of the mother’s mammary gland, the more actively the child fed and the faster he developed.

In addition, observations have emerged that suggest that, despite their rudimentary nature, Montgomery's tubercles still produce some kind of secretion that stimulates the baby to suckle more actively.

Thus, the task arose to determine what this secret is, since the answer to this question will help solve the problem of introducing breastfeeding to children born prematurely (premature).

Montgomery tubercles during menstruation

The appearance of Montgomery tubercles on the halo around the nipple indicates the onset of puberty in teenage girls and the formation of a monthly cycle in the growing female body, which is caused by the maturation of the egg and the body’s readiness to conceive.

If the menstrual cycle has formed and Montgomery tubercles have appeared, then they should not change in the future until pregnancy. It is considered normal when Montgomery's tubercles are completely invisible or very faintly noticeable after the end of puberty and before pregnancy. But if these formations change their appearance every time after the start of menstrual bleeding, then this can be explained by the individual characteristics of the body and the characteristics of the hormonal status.

Attention!If before or during menstruation the appearance of the Montgomery tubercles changes (they increase in size or become more convex), then a consultation with a gynecologist-endocrinologist or mammologist is necessary to make sure that there are no abnormalities in the body.

Attention!If before or during menstruation the appearance of Montgomery tubercles changes (they increase in size or become more convex), then any methods to eliminate these formations are prohibitive and unacceptable, since their presence is considered a physiological norm.

As a result of the research, scientists and practicing obstetricians-gynecologists were able to find out that these rudimentary formations still perform some functions necessary for the female body:

• The most important function is the release of a special secretion that protects the nipples from drying out;
• When breastfeeding a baby, it is very important that the Montgomery tubercles secrete a special bactericidal substance, which to some extent protects both the mammary glands and the baby;
• It is believed that it is the Montgomery tubercles, by releasing special aromatic substances, that help the newborn quickly get used to breastfeeding;
• Sometimes colostrum is released from these formations, and then milk, which often helps to increase the production of milk by the mammary glands, necessary for breastfeeding.

Montgomery tubercles during pregnancy

According to medical statistics, most often women notice Montgomery tubercles only during pregnancy, since the areola in non-pregnant women most often looks completely smooth. And only when a woman is expecting a child, Montgomery’s tubercles become noticeable, because during this period they begin to perform certain functions, although to an insignificant extent, because the organ is rudimentary and its functions have significantly weakened and decreased.

It is considered normal if Montgomery tubercles appear literally in the first days of pregnancy - sometimes this can happen. But the appearance of these formations in late gestation or even after the start of breastfeeding is also considered a variant of the norm, which is explained by the individual characteristics of the female body.

In addition, obstetricians and gynecologists note that the appearance of Montgomery tubercles in a pregnant or breastfeeding woman is not necessary and the tubercles may not appear at all. That is, the appearance of tubercles on the areola at any stage of pregnancy or even in the postpartum period, and their complete absence, can be considered normal variants.

Attention!An inflammatory process developing on the Montgomery tubercles should be considered a deviation from the norm, especially when redness is accompanied by pain.

If a woman notices that Montgomery's tubercles are developing incorrectly and are causing concern, then she needs to consult a doctor and under no circumstances engage in self-medication, which may pose a danger to her, the fetus, or the child. The attending physician will be able to select exactly the drugs that are needed in each specific case.

Attention!If Montgomery's tubercles become inflamed and cause concern, you should definitely and immediately consult a doctor.

Inflammation of the Montgomery tubercles

During the inflammatory process that can develop on the Montgomery tubercles, the following signs of inflammation appear:

• Montgomery's tubercles and the tissues around them become hyperemic, that is, redness is observed, which can spread to the areola;
• Montgomery's tubercles and adjacent tissues become painful, and in the absence of the necessary treatment, the pain intensifies;
• From the inflamed Montgomery tubercles, discharge (escudate) of a different nature may appear (depending on what caused the inflammatory process).

When inflammation of the Montgomery tubercles occurs, self-medication is unacceptable, since the health of both mother and baby may be at risk.

Attention!In case of an inflammatory process that begins on the chest, you must immediately seek help from a gynecologist or a mammologist. Self-medication when such a problem occurs is unacceptable.

The need for special attention to the inflammatory process of the Montgomery tubercles is explained by several reasons:

• During the period of bearing a child, the female body becomes more sensitive to any infections;
• During pregnancy, the body's hormonal levels change;
• Hormonal changes cause increased breast sensitivity and changes in the areola.

If the condition of your breasts causes concern and anxiety, then you should not expect that everything will work out on its own, or use any means at your own discretion. In this case, consultation with a doctor is mandatory - you should absolutely not resort to folk remedies or any self-medication in this case.

Attention!In case of inflammation of the Montgomery tubercles, any thermal procedures, including cauterization, and any attempts to squeeze out escudate from the inflamed tubercles are strictly prohibited.

Self-help for inflammation of the Montgomery tubercles should be limited to the use of antiseptic agents to treat the areas affected by the inflammatory process before visiting a doctor.

How to get rid of Montgomery tubercles?

As a rule, Montgomery's tubercles become noticeable only after pregnancy and lactation, after which they disappear again. However, there are times when these formations cause concern. In such cases, the doctor may prescribe treatment:

• Bactericidal preparations for local action;
• Local anti-inflammatory drugs;
• Physiotherapeutic methods;
• Homeopathic medicines;
• Phytotherapeutic drugs.

Attention!Any prescription during pregnancy and breastfeeding must be completely safe for the mother and child.

If Montgomery's tubercles have not disappeared after the end of the lactation period, although this happens extremely rarely, then modern aesthetic plastic surgery allows you to remove these formations quickly, almost painlessly and effectively. However, before deciding on such an operation, you need to carefully weigh the pros and cons and consult with a gynecologist, mammologist, endocrinologist and plastic surgeon.

Review

Small lumps in the breasts in women can be associated with menstruation and completely disappear after their end. In other cases, the detection of a lump or other changes in the breast should be a reason for mandatory consultation with a doctor.

Breast cancer is an extremely dangerous disease, but fortunately it is very rare. Much more often, in approximately 90% of cases, the cause of a lump in the breast is a non-cancerous tumor, many of which also require timely treatment.

There are several types of benign breast tumors, most of which are harmless and form under the influence of hormonal changes, for example, during the menstrual cycle. Such formations can be: fibroadenoma or cyst. Sometimes the cause of a lump in the breast is an infectious lesion of the mammary gland - mastitis or an abscess.

To notice any changes as early as possible, you need to monitor the condition of your breasts. You need to know what your breasts look like in normal condition and examine them regularly. Over the age of 50, it is necessary to undergo a mammogram - an X-ray examination of the breast - once every three years. At a younger age, ultrasound diagnostics is used. Both tests help identify signs of breast cancer, if any.

You should also consult a doctor if you notice the following changes in the mammary gland:

• discharge from the nipple, possibly with blood;
• change in breast size or shape;
• the appearance of dimples on the skin of the chest;
• rash on or around the nipple;
• change in the appearance of the nipple, for example, it becomes sunken;
• constant pain in the chest or armpits;
• the appearance of a lump or swelling in the armpit.

Don't be afraid if you are referred for additional examinations, this does not mean that the doctor suspects you have breast cancer. In most cases, it turns out that the lump is benign.

Lump (lump) in the chest: possible causes

In most cases, lumps in the mammary gland are benign in nature, that is, they are not associated with a malignant disease - cancer. As a rule, they are not dangerous and do not require treatment.

Fibrocystic mastopathy or fibroadenosis- the general name for a group of benign formations in the mammary gland, which are accompanied by pain (mastodynia or mastalgia) and an increase in breast size. The symptoms of fibrocystic mastopathy are most clearly noticeable before or during menstruation. The intensity of fibroadenosis manifestations varies from barely noticeable to pronounced and painful. In some women, lumps form in only one mammary gland, in others - in both. With the end of your period, breast lumps usually disappear or become significantly smaller. It is believed that one of the causes of mastopathy is an improper reaction of breast tissue to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.

Fibroadenoma is a smooth, round, benign tumor of breast tissue that forms outside the milk ducts. To the touch, fibroadenoma looks like a pea or lump in the chest, which is not fused with the surrounding tissues and is easily displaced. Most often fibroadenoma is single, less often multiple or found in both mammary glands. Usually it does not disappear after the end of the next menstruation and requires treatment, although in some cases it can go away on its own over time.

The reason for the appearance of fibroadenoma is not completely clear, but it is believed that its growth and development are associated with the atypical influence of the hormone estrogen. The tumor forms predominantly in young women, when the level of this hormone in the blood is highest or after menopause, but only in those women who use hormone replacement therapy, that is, receive estrogen in the form of tablets.

Cyst in the mammary gland is a fluid-filled sac that forms in the breast tissue and can cause a smooth, hard lump to appear in the breast. Most often found in women aged 30–60 years. Cysts can vary in size: very tiny or reaching several centimeters in diameter. There may be several cysts in one or both mammary glands.

These breast cysts often have no symptoms, although some women experience pain. It is believed that, as in the case of fibroadenomas, hormones are involved in the formation of cysts, since women most often suffer from this disease before menopause or those who are on hormone replacement therapy.

Breast abscess- accumulation of pus in the breast tissue, which is accompanied by high fever and inflammatory changes in the skin over the affected area. The most common cause of an abscess is a bacterial infection. Typically, bacteria enter the mammary gland through microcracks or wounds on the skin of the nipple, sometimes formed during breastfeeding.

Other benign causes of breast lumps:

• mastitis- pain and inflammation of breast tissue;
• fat necrosis- a hard, uneven lump, often resulting from injury or bruise to the breast, for example, after breast surgery;
• lipoma- fatty formation in the form of a lump;
• intraductal papilloma- a wart-like growth inside the milk duct that can also cause nipple discharge.

Breast cancer- a rare but extremely dangerous cause of compaction in one of the mammary glands, which can appear not only in women, but also in men. Possible signs indicating a malignant cause for a breast lump are the following:

• dense to the touch;
• does not move, is fused with surrounding tissues;
• does not decrease after the end of the next menstruation;
• the skin over the lump is deformed or when the mammary gland is displaced, a dimple appears in the skin;
• nipple discharge;
• enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit;
• appearance in older women after menopause.

Breast cancer can also have other symptoms. The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age, and most cases are diagnosed in women and men over 50 years of age. Predisposition to this disease may also be increased if it occurs in relatives.

Lump (tumor) in the breast: diagnosis

It is important to thoroughly study the appearance of your breasts and the sensations that arise when palpating them in a normal state, in order to immediately notice any unusual changes in them. Contact your gynecologist if you notice breast lumps or changes in breast appearance or shape.

For preliminary diagnosis, the doctor will need the following additional information:

• When did you first notice the lump?
• Are there other symptoms such as pain or discharge from the nipple?
• Do symptoms depend on the menstrual cycle?
• Have you ever had a chest injury?
• Do you have risk factors for breast cancer, such as do you have a close relative who has had the disease?
• What medications are you currently taking?
• Have you ever breastfed?

Having identified the symptoms, examined and palpated the mammary glands, the doctor may prescribe additional examinations to finally determine the diagnosis. In this case, there is no need to worry prematurely. The examination is necessary to accurately investigate the nature of the formation in the breast and is included in the diagnostic standard.

A referral for additional research does not mean that the doctor suspects you have breast cancer. In most cases, tests and tests help rule out malignancy and prove that the lump is benign (non-cancerous). The most commonly prescribed examination methods are described below.

Mammography is a simple procedure in which X-rays are used to obtain images of the internal structure of the breast. This makes it possible to detect changes in breast tissue at an early stage. During the procedure, the breast is placed on the plate of the X-ray machine and pressed on top by a second plate. An x-ray is then taken and the examination is repeated on the second breast.

A mammogram takes only a few minutes, but due to the pressure placed on the mammary glands by the machine's plates, it can be unpleasant and even slightly painful. After the examination is completed, the X-ray images are carefully examined and described by a radiologist in order to find and identify possible signs of any breast diseases in a timely manner.

Mammography is usually prescribed after the age of 40. In younger women, this study is not so indicative, because the breasts are denser, small formations in them are less visible on photographs, which makes diagnosis difficult. As an alternative examination for young patients, ultrasound examination of the mammary glands is recommended.

Ultrasound examination (ultrasound) is based on the use of high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the mammary glands from the inside. An ultrasound probe or sensor is placed on the chest and transmits an image to a monitor. It will clearly show any existing lumps or developmental abnormalities.

A breast ultrasound may be ordered after a mammogram to find out whether a lump found in the breast is a solid tumor or contains fluid. If the cause of a lump in the breast cannot be diagnosed using mammography or ultrasound, a breast biopsy may be prescribed.

Biopsy involves taking a tissue sample from the tumor for analysis. The sample is taken using a hollow needle that is inserted through the skin into the area being examined. The doctor will use images obtained during an ultrasound or x-ray to guide the needle into the correct location. When the needle is in the right place, the tissue sample is “sucked out.” As a rule, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia to avoid pain or discomfort.

Lump in the breast: should it be treated?

Often, a benign breast lump requires treatment only when it reaches a large size or causes pain. Some types of breast lumps, such as fibroadenomas, breast cysts, and fat necrosis, may resolve over time without treatment. If treatment is not required, the doctor may ask you to come back for an examination after some time to monitor the size of the lump in the breast, as well as if any changes appear in the mammary glands. The following describes the general principles of treating benign breast lumps.

Drug therapy is prescribed if the lump causes pain or the cause of the disease is infection. The following medications may be recommended:

• painkillers such as paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs);
• tamoxifen, danazol, or bromocriptine are sometimes prescribed for chest pain;
• antibiotics to treat mastitis or breast abscesses caused by a bacterial infection.

For some women, all that is needed to relieve pain is to reduce their intake of saturated fat and wear a bra that fits properly.

Sometimes it is necessary to pump out fluid from a cyst in the mammary gland. This is called a puncture. After local anesthesia, under ultrasound guidance, a needle is inserted into the cyst and the contents are removed. A sample of the fluid may then be sent for analysis to confirm the diagnosis. Sometimes after the procedure the cyst fills with fluid again. If you have any complaints after the puncture, you should definitely consult a doctor. The fluid can be drained again, but if the cyst continues to fill, it may be removed surgically.

If a benign breast lump is very large or continues to grow, it can be removed with surgery. Most often, surgical treatment is required for fibroadenomas, cysts in the mammary gland, fat necrosis and intraductal papillomas. Surgical removal of a tumor from the breast is usually performed under general anesthesia. The tumor can be cut out with a sharp surgical instrument or removed using a special suction. The obtained surgical material is necessarily sent to the laboratory to confirm the diagnosis and exclude a malignant neoplasm. You can usually go home on the day of surgery or a day later. As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of side effects: hematoma formation, swelling or bleeding, as well as infectious complications.

If a breast lump turns out to be cancerous, special treatments are required. You can read more about breast cancer treatment.

Which doctor should I contact if a lump appears in my chest?

Any formation in the breast that does not disappear after the end of the next menstruation or appears in a woman after menopause must be shown to a doctor. To do this you need to find a good gynecologist. Primary diagnosis of breast diseases is also carried out by a doctor or nurse in the examination room. A more specialized specialist who treats benign and malignant diseases of the mammary glands is a mammologist. You should contact him in cases where you already know your diagnosis and need serious treatment.

Review

lump in the chest

Localization and translation prepared by Napopravku.ru. NHS Choices provided the original content for free. It is available from www.nhs.uk. NHS Choices has not reviewed, and takes no responsibility for, the localization or translation of its original content

Copyright notice: “Department of Health original content 2019”

All site materials have been checked by doctors. However, even the most reliable article does not allow us to take into account all the features of the disease in a particular person. Therefore, the information posted on our website cannot replace a visit to the doctor, but only complements it. The articles have been prepared for informational purposes and are advisory in nature.

So, if you notice that...

BREASTS INCREASE

1. You are gaining weight

After puberty, breasts grow as the rest of the body grows. Why does my weight increase? You may eat more, exercise less, sleep little, or live under stress. Plus or minus a kilogram is natural. If you gain more weight, your risk of getting cancer increases.

2. You are expecting your period, have started taking oral contraceptives or are pregnant

Hormones affect breast size. If both breasts are enlarged, there is nothing to worry about.

BREASTS ARE SMALLER

3. You are losing weight

Breasts are made up of fat, so if you're losing weight, they'll be the first body part you notice. If your weight and breasts are decreasing for no apparent reason, you should see a doctor. After all, it could be hyperthyroidism or another disease.

4. New menstrual cycle

If the breasts increase before menstruation, it means that after it the swelling will go away and they will shrink. There is no reason to worry.

ONE BREAST IS BIGGER THAN THE OTHER

5. Nothing special

Breasts are not symmetrical, so if they have always been different sizes and shapes, that's okay.

6. Breast cancer

If the shape of one breast is changing, it's time to get checked for breast cancer.

IRRITATION TO THE SKIN UNDER THE BREASTS

7. Allergies

This happens when your bra wires are made of nickel, the soap didn't wash off after swimming, or you wore a sweater that irritates your skin. Hydrocortisone ointment will help you. If the irritation does not go away after a few days, see a doctor.

8. Intertriginous dermatitis

Or diaper rash. Very often in summer the skin under the breasts becomes chafed and inflamed. An antibiotic, steroid or hydrocortisone ointment will relieve the irritation, and a properly fitted bra will support your breasts and prevent recurrence.

9. The linen is no longer fresh.

Infrequent washing actually preserves the laundry, but bacteria or fungi can settle in it. The skin under the breasts sweats a lot and this is very beneficial for them.

YOU HAVE NOTICEABLE STRETCH MARKS

10. Your weight is fluctuating.

As your weight fluctuates, your breasts grow and shrink. This causes stretch marks. This often happens after pregnancy and in women with thin, inelastic skin.

VERY DARK OR LIGHT NIPPLES

11. Nothing special

No, it's not cancer. Each woman's nipples are colored differently. The main thing is that it is symmetrical.

VERY LARGE OR SMALL NIPPLES

12. Nothing special

Our bodies are simply different. If they are symmetrical, there is no problem.

BUBBLES ON AREOLAS

13. Nothing special

Breasts are intended for feeding babies. These tubercles are the exits of the milk ducts. Sometimes they get a little bigger, so if there are small bumps surrounding your nipple, you're fine.

ONE LARGE BUMPLE ON THE AREOLA

14. Benign cyst or malignant neoplasm

Get tested as soon as possible to find out if there is any cause for concern.

HAIR AROUND THE NIPPLE

15. Polycystic ovary syndrome

If you have started to grow hair around your nipple, your testosterone levels may have increased due to PCOS. Other symptoms include acne and irregular menstruation. Polycystic disease can lead to infertility, so you should see a doctor.

NIPPLES ITCH

16. Shampoo or soap residue irritates the skin.

Rinse your skin with water and apply hydrocortisone ointment.

17. Allergy to clothes

This could be a reaction to the dye in a new bra or wool sweater. Apply hydrocortisone ointment to your nipples and change your clothes.

18. A new cycle will begin soon

Sometimes hormonal changes cause itching.

19. Paget's disease

Or breast cancer, a very rare disease. Its symptoms are itchy nipples and areolas, flaky skin, a flattened nipple, and yellow or bloody nipple discharge. See a doctor immediately.

PAIN AND LAMPS IN THE CHEST

20. A new cycle will begin soon

Depending on the phase of the cycle, the structure and sensitivity of the breast may change. You should see a doctor. One consolation is that if you have bumps but no pain, then most likely it is not a tumor.

21. Too much caffeine

Caffeine causes chest pain for some people, so just start drinking less coffee, tea and soda and the problem will go away.

WHITE CLOUDY DISCHARGE FROM NIPPLES

22. Something stimulates milk production

Breasts are needed to feed babies. If the discharge looks like milk, something may be stimulating your milk production, even if you are not pregnant or caring for a small baby. The doctor will choose a medicine for you.

23. Side effect of antidepressants or antipsychotics

Some medications increase levels of prolactin, a hormone that stimulates milk production. In most cases, this is done safely, although it is unpleasant.

OTHER DISCHARGES FROM THE NIPLE

24. Benign neoplasm

Known as papilloma. You should see a doctor.

NIPPLES HARD

25. You're excited

If your nipples are symmetrical but firm, there is nothing to worry about. The muscles around the nipple simply contracted. This is usually related to sex.

26. You are cold

If it's not about sex, then the simplest explanation is cold. Just stay warm.

Inverted Nipple OR Dimples in the Nipple or BREAST

27. Breast cancer

Any dents could be a sign of cancer. You should see a doctor URGENTLY.

LAMP IN THE CHEST

28. Everything is fine with you

Now it’s just another phase of the cycle when the breasts become denser. This is fine. Breast lumps that could mean something serious can only be detected with a mammogram.

VEINS VISIBLE THROUGH THE SKIN

29. Risk of skin cancer

Fair skin is usually pale and translucent. If so, you are at high risk of sunburn, but as long as you don't overextend yourself and use sunscreen, there won't be any serious problems.

BREASTS LOOK LIKE ORANGES

30. Breast cancer

If your smooth breasts suddenly become uneven like an orange peel, and your areolas and nipples become hard, it may be cancer. You should see a doctor URGENTLY.

BUNE ON THE CHEST

31. Benign cyst

If it is round and smooth and you can move it, it may be a benign cyst filled with fluid. It's not a tumor. You should see a doctor.

32. Breast cancer

Most often, pain and growths in the chest are the result of hormones. Every time you encounter them, the question arises: is it cancer or could it become cancer? Only the doctor will answer.

Statistics say that the most common reason for visiting a mammologist is lumps in the mammary gland. This problem is widespread, especially recently, when, due to unfavorable environment and poor quality of nutrition, cases of breast cancer have become more frequent. But it should be borne in mind that not every lump indicates the presence of cancer. There are other reasons for this painful condition.

Possible causes of compaction

Lumps in the mammary glands in women can occur for various reasons. Here are the most common ones:

• Cysts of various sizes and origins;
• Lipomas or wen - growths of adipose tissue;
• Malignant tumor or breast cancer;
• Mechanical damage, such as bruises;
• Hematomas and swelling;
• Milk stagnation in nursing mothers;
• Hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy and menopause.

The location of problem areas can be different: near the armpit, near the nipple, in the upper or lower part of the chest. This is also of great importance in diagnosis. It should be borne in mind that various kinds of nodes and lumps in the breast appear most often in older women, so women over forty are at risk.

If the tumor is caused by a malignant tumor, the lump or nodule is a collection of cancer cells. It feels like a ball in the chest and in the early stages is almost painless when pressed.

Diagnosis of the disease

A woman can diagnose large lumps on her own. It is enough just to carefully examine the sternum area and palpate every square centimeter of both mammary glands. In order to detect small lumps, cysts or tumors, an examination by a mammologist is required - a specialist who treats breast diseases. To do this, doctors usually use the following methods:

• Visual examination of the patient's breasts;
• Palpation and identification of painful areas of the chest with pronounced lumps;
• Ultrasound examination;
• Analysis for cancer markers.

If a doctor discovers a suspicious tumor in a patient, a mammary puncture is often prescribed. There is no need to be afraid of this procedure; it helps to determine what exactly caused the tumor and develop further treatment tactics.

It should be borne in mind that problem areas in the chest can only be felt; they are almost invisible in appearance. Therefore, a woman should perform a preventive examination of the mammary glands on her own, visiting a specialist once a year. Since most oncological diseases overtake beautiful ladies during menopause, after forty years it is necessary to visit a mammologist once every six months. Before the doctor identifies the cause of the formation of a nodule or lump, he may admit the patient to the hospital for a comprehensive examination. Diagnostics can also be performed on an outpatient basis.

If a woman has hard breasts, There is no need to postpone a visit to a specialist. The sooner the patient contacts a mammologist, the more effective further treatment will be. If you miss a favorable moment, irreversible changes can occur in the mammary gland.

Breast problems in nursing women

Women who breastfeed a child often encounter problems such as lumps in the breast. But in this case, the phenomenon is not caused by a tumor. It is caused by stagnation of milk, the so-called lactostasis. This usually happens in the first months of the baby’s birth, when breastfeeding has not yet been established.

A small baby does not need a lot of food, and the mother's milk is very active, so the milk that the baby cannot suck out stagnates in the breast. But over time, the bodies of the mother and child adapt to each other, and the mother begins to produce exactly as much milk as the baby needs, so the problem of milk stagnation is successfully resolved.

If for some reason the mother cannot feed the baby for a long time (for example, the baby is sick or weak and cannot suckle, or the mother leaves him for a while), stagnant milk can lead to diseases such as mastitis. Here are the symptoms of this dangerous disease:

• The appearance of painful lumps in the chest;
• A sharp increase in body temperature, sometimes up to forty degrees;
• Signs of general intoxication of the body (weakness, muscle pain and headaches);
• Unpleasant feeling, as if milk is bursting the chest.

In order for the unpleasant lumps in the breast to resolve, it is necessary to massage the mammary gland before each feeding and latch onto the baby as often as possible. If the child consumes less milk than the mother produces, the excess milk must be expressed manually or using a milk pump.

To prevent malignant tumors, doctors recommend feeding infants for at least one year. Also, breastfeeding for up to a year is considered a good way to prevent pregnancy, because during breastfeeding, most women completely lose their periods.

Hardening of milk in the breast should not be ignored, as it can lead to general intoxication of the body. To relieve pain, you can apply cabbage leaves to the bumps, but this method does not cure mastitis, but only helps to temporarily relieve discomfort.

Features of treatment

Treatment of seals depends on the exact reason for their appearance. The choice of treatment methods depends on the woman’s age and the severity of the disease. If the cause of the seals is cyst or wen, doctors usually use the following methods:

If the doctor determines that the tumor is malignant, that is, it is in the nature of an oncological disease, the patient is hospitalized in a hospital, and based on the results of the examinations, she is scheduled for a planned operation. After surgery, the woman usually undergoes chemotherapy to consolidate the results.

The use of folk remedies to treat neoplasms is strictly prohibited until their cause is finally determined. If a woman feels any suspicious areas on her chest, which are also painful to press, she should immediately consult a doctor, since many dangerous diseases, for example, breast cancer, are practically asymptomatic at first. Treatment tactics completely depend on what caused the formation of the nodule.

If the tumor causes severe discomfort and constant pain, the doctor may prescribe a course of painkillers or antibiotics to relieve inflammation.

If the lump is caused by stagnation of milk, it will resolve with massage. A contrast shower helps reduce pain. If there is engorgement of the mammary glands and sore nipples, you can use special creams to relieve unpleasant symptoms.

How to keep your breasts healthy into old age

In order to keep your breasts healthy and beautiful until old age, this organ must be treated very carefully and delicately. While taking a shower, you should not rub your nipples and breasts with a rough washcloth; the washcloth should be soft, otherwise irritation may occur on your delicate skin. You should be careful when choosing underwear, select it only by size, purchase it in specialized stores or sew it yourself at home.

To avoid the appearance of nodules and bumps, you must follow all the rules of breastfeeding. Weaning your baby off the breast should happen gradually, not abruptly. Then the mother will not have stagnation of milk, its quantity will gradually decrease until lactation stops completely. If you abruptly remove the baby's breast, this can lead to lactostasis. During feeding, you must initially teach the baby to suck the breast correctly: he should capture the entire area around the nipple with his mouth.

Girls should take care of their breasts from a young age and not engage in traumatic sports, since any injury received in youth can lead to the formation of a tumor in a few years. You should not be exposed to the sun with your breasts exposed, because this can lead to breast cancer.

To prevent painful lumps in the mammary gland, it is necessary to monitor your diet and refrain from eating foods that contain carcinogens. As a rule, these are any industrially produced sweets, products with preservatives and aromatic additives, smoked and fried foods.

Also, in order to keep the mammary glands healthy, it is advisable to breastfeed at least one child for up to a year. Statistics show that women who have never practiced breastfeeding have breast cancer much more often than those who have breastfed their children for a long time. This is due to the fact that during lactation the body releases substances that have a destructive effect on cancer cells. Pills for emergency cessation of lactation have an extremely negative effect on the condition of the mammary glands. The appearance of malignant tumors is often observed in women who are heavy smokers.

A woman should know that the mere appearance of a small nodule in the breast is not at all a reason for worry and worry. It is possible that this condition will go away on its own without any treatment. However, in order not to worry in vain, you should definitely see a doctor. A qualified physician will answer all questions and help you easily cope with the disease at an early stage. It is imperative to monitor the health of your breasts, because this organ requires a very special attitude.