What is the difference between breast hyperplasia nodules and breast hyperplasia?

Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
Updated on May 24, 2025
00:00
00:00

Breast hyperplasia nodules and breast hyperplasia are not much different; breast hyperplasia nodules are a more severe condition than simple breast hyperplasia. Based on the typical symptoms of cyclic breast swelling and pain, which worsen before menstruation and lessen or disappear after menstruation, and upon physical examination, nodular lumps of various sizes can be felt within the breast, which are tough but not hard, sometimes tender to the touch. Supplementary examinations like ultrasound show uneven low-echo areas in the hyperplastic breast, and if cysts are present, they form anechoic areas. Breast mammography shows ground-glass or cotton-wool shadows, which can be diagnosed as breast hyperplasia. However, it is important to be wary of the potential coexistence of breast hyperplasia and breast cancer. On one hand, patients with significant hyperplasia should be closely monitored; on the other hand, patients with obvious hyperplastic lumps or unclear boundaries of thickened breast tissue should undergo fine-needle aspiration biopsy of suspicious lesions to prevent misdiagnosis.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
40sec home-news-image

What is the best food to eat for mammary gland hyperplasia?

For breast hyperplasia, it is advisable to consume more vitamins and high-fiber foods, as well as fruits and vegetables. Although its exact mechanism is not clear, it has been confirmed that fiber can inhibit breast cancer and colon cancer. Numerous studies also suggest that vitamin A plays a protective role in breast cells. It is beneficial to exercise frequently, and to eat less food high in estrogen, such as soy isoflavones, soy milk, and poultry. Additionally, it is wise to reduce alcohol consumption and smoking, as drinking can increase the levels of estrogen in the body, thereby raising the risk of breast cancer in women.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
41sec home-news-image

Does breast hyperplasia hurt?

The main symptom of mammary gland hyperplasia is breast pain, which usually occurs in accordance with the menstrual cycle. There is significant breast pain before the period, and symptoms tend to lessen after the period. Generally, the pain is intermittent, diffuse, dull, or like needle pricks. There can also be shooting pain or hidden pain, and even some report pain as if being cut by a knife. Some of the pain is subjective, but it can also manifest as pain upon touch, or pain from friction caused by clothing during walking. There can be tenderness in the breasts, or increased pain in the upper limbs after physical exertion. The pain may occur in one breast or both.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
45sec home-news-image

Do breast hyperplasia hurt?

Breast hyperplasia can be painful, primarily manifesting as cyclical breast pain according to the menstrual cycle. For example, there may be swelling and pain before menstruation, and lumps can be felt in the breasts. Anger and "internal heat" can also worsen breast hyperplasia. The main treatments include soothing the liver and regulating qi, maintaining a positive attitude, and avoiding spicy and fried foods. Traditional Chinese medicine primarily uses approaches to soothe the liver, improve qi circulation, invigorate the blood, dissolve stasis, soften lumps, disperse nodules, and massage. In Western medicine, hormonal treatments can alleviate this pain.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
37sec home-news-image

Is breast hyperplasia okay?

Breast hyperplasia generally is not problematic, typically presenting as cyclical breast pain and swelling that appears before menstruation and may disappear afterwards. Mild cases often go unnoticed by patients, but severe cases can impact daily life and work. Some patients do not show obvious cyclical changes; instead, they may experience unilateral breast pain, swelling, or stabbing pain, which can extend to the shoulders, upper limbs, or back. A few patients might experience nipple discharge, such as yellow, brown, serous, or bloody discharge.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
45sec home-news-image

Is second-degree mammary gland hyperplasia serious?

Breast hyperplasia of the second degree is not serious; it is simply a case of benign breast hyperplasia. The main recommendation is to establish a good lifestyle, regulate life rhythm, maintain emotional well-being, persist in physical exercise, actively participate in social activities, and avoid or reduce mental and psychological stress factors. Additionally, mastering breast self-examination is advised. Developing the habit of performing a breast self-check monthly is beneficial, ideally after the menstrual period or midway between two months, when the breasts are softer. This makes it easier to detect any abnormalities. Then, it is sufficient to undergo a breast examination once a year.