Fibrocystic Disease of Breast

What is Fibrocystic Disease (Fibrocystic Breast Change)

Fibrocystic breast changes (also known as fibrocystic breast disease, mammary dysplasia, and fibercystic changes of the breasts) is a condition that causes changes to the breasts, including breast pain, lumps, and other changes of the breast tissue. It is a common condition that usually occurs in women aged 20 to 50. It is not a pre-cancerous condition, and there is no evidence that it increases your risk of later developing breast cancer.

Women with fibrocystic breast changes experience an array of symptoms, including breast pain, swelling, tenderness, and the formation of lumps and cysts.

Symptoms of Fibrocystic Breast Change

The most common symptoms of fibrocystic breast change are cyclical breast tenderness, swelling, and the formation of lumps in the breasts.

• Painful, swollen breasts. The pain or discomfort may be sharp or dull and may be felt in one or both breasts.
• Breast fullness and tenderness which typically is felt before a woman's menstrual period.
• Lumps or nodules in the breasts, which may be felt by a doctor during a physical examination. These nodules may be as small as a pea or as large as a grape.
• Size or shape changes in the breasts.
• Changes in the color of the nipples or the look of the nipples.
• Itching or burning in the breasts.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Fibrocystic Breasts

Fibrocystic breasts can usually be diagnosed after a physical examination and a discussion about your symptoms. If your doctor suspects that there is a more serious underlying problem, they may order additional tests, such as a mammogram or ultrasound.

The good news is that fibrocystic breasts do not require any treatment. However, if your symptoms are severe or persistent, your doctor may recommend certain medications to reduce the severity of your symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of exercise, and reducing stress.

If you have any questions or concerns about fibrocystic changes, be sure to talk to your doctor. They can advise you on the best course of action for treating your symptoms.