Breast Care

Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer affecting women. For general information about this disease, including detection and treatment, visit the breast cancer section of UT Medical Center’s Cancer Institute. For more information about breast cancer survivors and support please read the information on the C.A.R.E. Program.

Non-Cancerous Breast Conditions
Fibrocystic breast disease (FBD) is an umbrella term for a wide variety of non-cancerous breast conditions. It was once thought that FBD increased a woman’s risk of getting breast cancer—but that is no longer believed to be true. The good news is that FBD does not increase your breast cancer risk.

Here are some of the main symptoms of FBD.

• Breasts with a “lumpy” texture
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• A greenish or straw-colored nipple discharge

If you notice that your breasts are “lumpy” during a monthly self-exam, check with your doctor to make sure it’s just FBD. If you find a single lump, it’s even more important to check with your doctor to make sure the lump is not cancerous—but don’t panic. The majority of breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous). Here are some types of benign breast lumps.

• Cysts—No one knows what causes these fluid-filled sacs to form in the breast. They can be painful, but the treatment is simple—your doctor simply inserts a needle into the cyst to draw out the fluid. The fluid usually is tested for malignant cells just to make sure there is no sign of cancer. Some cysts must be removed on an outpatient basis.
• Fibroadenomas—These are rubbery, painless lumps of solid tissue that are more common in younger women. They often move freely when you manipulate them. Usually, these lumps are removed on an outpatient basis, and the tissue is biopsied to make sure it’s benign.

Some women find that FBD can cause considerable pain during certain parts of their menstrual cycles. Here are steps you can take to minimize discomfort.

• Limit caffeine. Some studies have found a connection between caffeine intake and breast pain. Limit your intake of foods and beverages that contain caffeine, including coffee, tea, colas and chocolate.
• Limit salt intake. Limiting salt to a teaspoon or less per day can help reduce swelling.
• Eat a low-fat diet. There is some evidence that a low-fat diet reduces breast pain, plus experts say that it may reduce your risk of developing breast cancer.
• Take analgesics. Aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen help reduce pain.
• Wear a good bra. Firm support helps keep pain to a minimum.

Breast Self-Exams
Good health starts with prevention. For that reason, it is important to get into the habit of doing a monthly self-exam of your breasts. You will get a good understanding of what is normal for your breasts—so it will be much easier to tell if a change occurs later.

Here’s how to perform a breast exam.

Using the pads of your three middle fingers, examine each breast in a circular pattern. Starting at the outside top edge of your breast and circling in towards the nipple, press your breasts with small, circular motions. Do this twice on each breast, the first time with light pressure, the second time with deep pressure. Do your exam on the same day each month, seven to 10 days after your period.

• In the shower. Gently lather each breast. With one arm raised, examine each breast and underarm area with the opposite hand. Feel for any lumps or thickenings that are different from previous exams.
• In front of a mirror. See if there are any changes in your breasts while you are in each of the following positions: arms at your sides, arms over your head, hands clasped under your chin while you flex your chest muscles, and bent forward with your breasts hanging.
• Lying down. Place a small pillow or folded towel under your mid-back, on the side you are examining. Rub lotion on your breast and repeat the finger-pad exam. Examine your left breast with your right hand and your right breast with your left hand. Ask your doctor about any changes you find.

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation provides an excellent detailed explanation of breast self-exams.

Mammograms
Mammograms are X-rays of breast tissue—they are used for early detection of breast cancer and diagnosis of other breast conditions. They can detect a cancerous lump when it is the size of a pinhead—about two years before it can be felt.

Age Guidelines for Mammography Screening
Mammography screening should be combined with monthly self-exams and regular examinations by your doctor. Here are general age guidelines for breast care.

Mammography at UT Medical Center
Mammography is available at UT Medical Center and at the offices of a variety of UT Medical Center-affiliated physicians. For more information, call or ask your UT Medical Center-affiliated doctor for a referral.

For more information please contact the Breast Care Service 865.305.6921.