Understanding Breast Cysts

Published on: September 14, 2016

One of the larger concerns for women is the risk of breast cancer. From an early age, women are educated on how to identify lumps in their breasts that could be a sign of breast cancer. Often a lump in a breast is a cyst, a small sack of fluid that is common in breast tissue. If you have breast lumps or have been diagnosed with cysts in your breast, here is what you need to know about these changes in your breast tissue.

Breast Cyst Facts

Cysts in your breasts are a small, moveable lumps that are filled with fluid. They usually begin from fluid collecting in the breast glands. When they are small, they cannot be felt through touch. However, as they grow, they can feel like a lump and may be sensitive or painful. Some facts about breast cysts include:

  • Women in their 40’s are most commonly affected by cysts but they can occur at any age.
  • Cysts may be more sensitive during menstrual periods and can cause fluid to leak from the nipples.
  • Cysts can be as large as two-inches in diameter. When they become large, they are more likely to cause discomfort.
  • Cysts can be biopsied or removed through cyst aspiration. They process uses a needle to remove the fluid from the cyst. This often relieves any pain or discomfort caused by the cyst. If fluid is removed from a lump, it also can ensure that it is not cancer.

If you have a breast lump, you will want to have it inspected by your doctor to ensure it is not a cancerous growth. If it is a cyst and causing you pain, your local radiology clinic that offers cyst aspirations can help you by quickly and painlessly remove the fluid from your cyst.

Posted on behalf of:
Diagnostic Radiology Ultrasound & Breast Center, P.C.
Mount Vernon Medical Center
755 Mount Vernon Highway Northeast #310
Atlanta, GA 30328
(404) 252-3430

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