When to Worry About Breast Lumps

Is every lump a sign of cancer?

Finding a lump during a self-breast examination would make any of us pause. But don’t let just any lump send you into a spiral. After all, most lumps are benign. Here’s a quick guide to understanding what is not a cause for concern and when to (actually) worry about breast lumps:

When not to worry

A number of skin or medical conditions can cause lumps to appear on the surface or just below the skin. Lumps that are not a cause for concern are typically soft and moveable, meaning they change form and location when you touch them. Mobile lumps that you can roll between your fingers are less likely to be cancerous than hard lumps that feel solid and fixed. There are two main types of common lumps:

1. Lumps connected to activity

Lumps can often appear in relation to a traumatic event, exercise, or activity. If your lump grows larger or painful with movement and diminishes in size with rest, then it is likely harmless.

2. Cysts

Lumps can also be fluid-filled, like the common medical condition of cysts. These types of lumps can often come and go with the hormonal fluctuations of your menstrual cycle. If a cyst goes away, you know your lump was indeed benign and not cause for concern.

3. Fibroadenomas

Another type of benign lump is the fibroadenoma. These are solid, smooth, and firm lumps that are commonly found in women in their 20s and 30s but can occur at any age. Fibroadenomas are non-cancerous and can feel like a marble within your breast, moving easily under your skin when touched. These lumps are usually painless and might vary in size throughout your menstrual cycle.

4. Lipomas

Lipomas are another variety of benign lumps, composed of fatty tissue, that can develop in the breast. These soft, squishy lumps are usually round and movable and can sometimes be slightly painful, particularly if they grow larger. Lipomas are not cancerous and generally do not require treatment unless they are uncomfortable or you prefer to have them removed for aesthetic reasons.

When to talk to your doctor

Lumps that may be cancerous are typically single, hard bumps that can be felt outside of the body and under the skin. Generally painless to the touch, these lumps appear spontaneously and grow in size steadily over time. Other signs to look out for include changes in nipple appearance, nipple secretions, nipple tenderness, and dimpling or puckering of the skin.

If you find a lump of this nature or experience any of the other symptoms listed above, seek an evaluation by a medical professional who can help you decide how to proceed.

Not all Lumps are cause for concern

We all recognize how essential self-examination and early detection are to breast health. But it’s also vital to understand what your findings might mean. Many lumps represent benign, treatable conditions. On rare occasions, unexplained lumps may be the sign of something more serious. Communicate any abnormalities and anxieties to your doctor, but in the meantime, remember that a lump is not a diagnosis. And, of course, if you’re ever unsure about a lump, always go to a medical provider to get it checked out.

By maintaining awareness of the types and characteristics of breast lumps, you empower yourself with knowledge and can navigate your health with greater confidence and clarity.