Breast Skin and Nipple Changes
What do the changes in my breasts mean?
Breast changes are common and there are usually various underlying causes for them.
Most breast changes are not cancer, although it is important to follow-up with your health care provider regarding the symptoms so that they are evaluated and treated properly.
Common breast changes include variations in how your breast or nipple looks or feels and may include:
- Swelling
- Warmth
- Redness or darkening
- Itchy, bumpy or scaly
- Ridges or pitting
- Thickening of the nipple or breast skin
- Rash around the nipple
- Nipple becomes flat or inverted
- Nipple Discharge
Any nipple discharge, which is an abnormal fluid coming from the nipple, particularly clear discharge or bloody discharge should be reported to your physician. It is also important to note that a milky discharge that is present, when not breastfeeding, should be checked by your doctor as well. Spontaneous discharges that come from only one breast are the most concerning, but again, generally benign.
If you have these or other breast changes, please contact your physician or a Hoag breast care specialist at 949-764-5780.
Continuum of awareness
Whether it is time for your annual breast screening or you have an area of concern, it is extremely valuable for you to be proactive in your breast health.
Hoag’s comprehensive breast program offers the most advanced screening technologies, along with a compassionate and specialized breast care team.
With a multidisciplinary approach that includes awareness, prevention, early detection, use of promising therapies, and extensive complementary support programs, our team at Hoag is here to help you with your specific breast health needs. Schedule your mammogram today.