[18F] Experiencing intermittent breast soreness and firmness

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

• Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations related to your menstrual cycle can cause breast tenderness and swelling. These symptoms can vary in intensity and may not follow a regular pattern.

  • Treatment typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers and lifestyle changes such as wearing a supportive bra and reducing caffeine and salt intake.

• Fibrocystic breast changes: This is a common condition characterized by lumpiness and discomfort in one or both breasts. The pain and lumpiness can fluctuate with the menstrual cycle.

  • Treatment often involves over-the-counter pain relievers. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe hormone therapy.

• Breast cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs that can form in the breasts, leading to breast discomfort.

  • Treatment may involve a fine-needle aspiration to drain the fluid and relieve symptoms.

• Mastitis: This is an infection of the breast tissue that results in breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness. You might also have fever and chills.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics. In some cases, an abscess might need to be drained.

Please note that it's important to get any new breast lump checked by a healthcare provider, especially if it doesn't go away after your next menstrual cycle.

What you can do

1. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and see if they follow a pattern related to your menstrual cycle.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) may help relieve the pain.
3. Wear a supportive bra: This can help reduce discomfort.
4. Limit caffeine and salt: Some women find that their breast symptoms improve when they avoid caffeine or reduce the amount of salt in their diet.
5. Warm or cold compress: Applying a warm or cold compress to the sore area may provide some relief.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If the lump in your breast gets bigger or doesn't go away after your next menstrual cycle
• If you notice other changes in the breast, such as redness, dimpling or puckering of the skin, or changes in the nipple
• If you develop a fever and chills

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider if you're worried about your symptoms.