Finding a lump in your breast can instantly trigger panic. You start jumping to the worst-case scenario, and even the internet searches start adding to your anxiety.
Here’s some news to calm your nerves: Not every breast lump is dangerous, and most types of cyst in breast are benign and manageable.
That said, scroll down to learn more about breast cysts, why they hurt so much, and how to dissolve them.
What Is a Breast Cyst?
A breast cyst is a sac filled with fluid that develops inside the breast tissue. When touching, it can feel:
- Soft
- Firm
- Smooth grape under the skin
Some cysts are tiny and barely noticeable, while others can grow large enough to cause discomfort.
Many women complain about having a lump inside breast that hurts, which usually gets triggered before their period. That’s because cysts often respond to hormonal changes and may swell or become tender during certain times of the month, as per StatPearls.
At other times, the pain may be due to pressure on surrounding tissues. When fluid builds up, it stretches the surrounding tissue, irritating nearby nerves. This is why many people complain of a hard lump inside breast that becomes too sore to touch, and causes pain throughout the day.
But this is not always a cause for concern, and pain does not automatically mean cancer. However, it is best to have regular breast examinations after the 30s to catch the cyst before it turns malignant.
Cysts with pain and palpable mass have about 2% to 8% chances of becoming cancerous, as per NCBI.
Common Breast Cyst Symptoms You Should Know
Everyone experiences the symptoms of breast cysts differently. The range of symptoms includes:
- A round or oval lump that feels smooth
- Tenderness or pain around the lump
- Size changes during the menstrual cycle
- One breast feels heavier than the other
- Discomfort when wearing a bra or lying on one side
Sometimes, the cyst may feel a hard knot in breast instead of soft, and the texture can vary depending on fluid thickness and surrounding tissue.
What Causes Breast Cysts?
The exact cause of breast cysts isn’t always clear, but various factors, like hormonal fluctuations, can lead to their formation. Other contributing factors include:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Stress
- Poor sleep patterns
- Natural bodily changes with age, especially between 35 and 50 years
- Excess caffeine intake may worsen fibrocystic breast changes, which can lead to cysts (for some people)
Read the following section to understand how to dissolve cysts in breast through medicine, surgery, and non-invasive treatments.
Treatment Options for Breast Lumps
A lot of breast cyst types are non-cancerous, such as fibroadenomas, and don’t require immediate treatment. In such cases, doctors recommend regular monitoring to track changes in symptom severity.
1. Medications
Your doctor may prescribe medications to treat the underlying causes of the lump, such as:
- Antibiotics are effective for treating infections in breast tissue, which may lead to lumps or cysts, such as mastitis.
- Hormonal treatments help manage hormonal fluctuations, especially in cases of fibrocystic breast changes.
2. Non-Surgical Procedures
Many breast lumps can be removed or treated without surgical options, as explained below:
- Fine-needle aspiration uses a thin needle to drain fluid from a cyst, often providing quick relief of discomfort.
- Cryoablation is another minimally invasive technique that freezes and shrinks non-cancerous lumps without removing surrounding tissue.
3. Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be advised if the lump is large, painful, growing rapidly, or suspected to be cancerous.
- Lumpectomy removes only the lump while preserving most of the breast tissue.
- Mastectomy, or complete breast removal, is not always required but is the most effective and recommended option for confirmed cancer cases.
Breast Lump Home Remedies
Most home remedies focus on managing discomfort rather than treating the underlying condition. However, trying these tips can help ease a lot of pain management:
- Warm compresses: These may help reduce pain and inflammation, especially in cysts or infections.
- Diet changes: A diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and fibre can help support overall breast health. Also, reduce caffeine, cola, and processed foods to reduce discomfort associated with fibrocystic changes.
- Herbal Remedies: Herbal treatments such as evening primrose oil can help ease tenderness, while turmeric may help reduce inflammation.
- Lifestyle habits: Daily healthy practices such as regular exercise, stress management, and maintaining a healthy weight can support hormonal balance and breast health.
Read More: Why is My Right Breast Bigger than the Left?
To Sum Up
A cyst in breast can be uncomfortable and cause immense anxiety, but most breast cysts are harmless, especially when detected early. The key is not to panic or ignore it. Monitor your symptoms. If you notice severe pain, tenderness, or changes in size or texture, consult your doctor for an appropriate examination and management.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Cyst in Breast
How serious is a cyst in the breast?
Most breast cysts are non-cancerous and not serious. However, any new or painful lump should still be checked by a doctor for safety.
How long can a cyst stay in your breast?
A breast cyst can stay for weeks, months, or even years. Some go away on their own, while others may come and go with hormonal changes.
Does breast cancer start as a cyst?
No, breast cancer usually does not start as a cyst. Cysts are fluid-filled and typically benign, while cancerous lumps are solid.
Do cysts cause bruises?
Breast cysts usually don’t cause bruising. If you notice bruising, it may be due to injury, infection, or another condition and should be checked.
What is the main cause of breast cysts?
Hormonal fluctuations, especially changes in oestrogen levels, are the leading cause of breast cysts.
