Can breast swelling and pain be breast cancer?

Written by Fan Hong Qiao
Breast Health Department
Updated on September 11, 2024
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The causes of breast pain are primarily divided into physiological and pathological breast pain. Physiological breast pain is often caused by changes in the body's hormones, wearing inappropriate underwear, too tight bras, miscarriage, or hormonal changes before menstruation. This type of breast pain has a certain regularity and recurs cyclically; careful observation can usually identify the cause and solution on its own. Pathological breast pain refers to pain caused by breast diseases. The nature of the pain is diverse and irregular, constituting non-cyclical pain. Diseases that can cause this type of breast pain include mastitis, fibrocystic breast changes, breast trauma, or breast cancer. However, early-stage breast cancer generally does not cause noticeable pain; pain associated with breast cancer typically occurs in the later stages when the cancer affects nerves. Therefore, if you experience breast pain, do not rush to conclusions. Whether it is physiological, pathological, or induced by other diseases requires a doctor's diagnosis.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Do breasts become sore before pregnancy?

Before pregnancy, women can also experience breast pain and swelling. This happens because, before pregnancy, the female body begins to secrete hormones during ovulation, increasing their levels, which then stimulates the mammary glands, causing breast proliferation and congestion of the mammary glands. Therefore, during pregnancy, this breast pain and swelling phenomenon can worsen. However, experiencing breast pain and swelling does not necessarily indicate pregnancy; it could also be a phenomenon occurring after ovulation and before menstruation. Before pregnancy, due to the influence of the ovulation period, some women may experience swelling of the breasts and proliferation of the mammary glands, or pain caused by lumps in the mammary glands. In such cases, further observation is needed for a few more days, and after having intercourse for half a month, or if menstruation is delayed, a pregnancy test using an early pregnancy test strip is suggested.

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Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
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What tests should be done for breast pain?

Breast pain is generally considered to be caused by breast hyperplasia. It usually occurs or worsens before menstruation and decreases or disappears after menstruation. In this case, it is recommended to have a breast ultrasound, which generally shows uneven low echo areas. If cysts are formed, anechoic areas will be reported. You can also undergo a mammography X-ray examination, which often shows ground glass-like or cotton wool-like shadows. If financial conditions allow, further breast MRI examination can be conducted to more accurately determine the benign or malignant nature of the condition.

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Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
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Is massage useful for breast distension pain?

Breast pain massage can be effective, but the effect is not very clear. Breast pain is generally related to breast hyperplasia, which is often linked to increased levels of estrogen due to endocrine disorders. Under normal circumstances, for symptoms that are quite obvious, we can use traditional Chinese medicine for treatment, which alleviates the pain through methods such as soothing the liver and regulating Qi, as well as harmonizing vital energy. Vitamin treatment can also be used. Vitamins B, C, and E improve liver function, regulate sex hormone metabolism, and enhance autonomic nervous function, serving as auxiliary medications for this condition. Vitamin E also has a pain-relieving effect. Endocrine treatment can also be used, although it is generally best avoided if possible. However, for patients in the pre-menopausal period who experience significant pain, it can be taken before the onset of menstruation.

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Written by Zhang Shu Kun
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Why do breasts swell and hurt after soaking feet in mugwort?

When experiencing breast pain and swelling while using mugwort for foot soaks, it is primarily considered that mugwort promotes overall blood circulation, which may lead to painful hardness upon touching, mainly suspected to be caused by mastitis or a tumor. It is advised to promptly visit a reputable hospital to investigate the specific cause and rule out inflammation or tumors in the breast. This can effectively prevent worsening of the symptoms. Additionally, rest is important as mugwort foot soaks can be beneficial for bodily health, but if symptoms occur, it is essential to immediately stop the treatment.

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Written by Hu Bai Yu
Pulmonology
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What causes chest tightness and breast pain?

Chest tightness and breast pain are primarily considered to be caused by breast hyperplasia or mastitis. It is recommended to visit a hospital for an examination, including a breast ultrasound, to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Diet should be light, avoiding spicy, greasy, cold, and irritating foods. It is also important to check for symptoms of pregnancy using a test strip. If pregnancy is ruled out, the symptoms may be due to breast hyperplasia or mastitis. Under a doctor's guidance, anti-inflammatory and anti-infection medications should be taken as treatment. Additionally, maintaining a good mood, avoiding anger, ensuring adequate sleep, and not staying up late can significantly aid in recovery from illness.