[27F] Experiencing breast pain and swelling with lymph node tenderness

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• 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. Mastitis most commonly affects women who are breast-feeding (lactation mastitis), but it can occur in women who aren't breast-feeding and in men.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and symptoms usually start to improve within a few days of starting treatment.

• Breast Abscess: This is a painful collection of pus that forms in the breast. Most abscesses are caused by a bacterial infection. The bacteria enter your body through a damaged area of skin, such as a cut or bite, and travel through your lymphatic system to your breast tissue.

  • Treatment for a breast abscess involves draining the pus, either with a needle or by making a small cut in the skin. You'll also usually need to take antibiotics to clear the infection.

• Inflammatory Breast Cancer: This is a rare type of breast cancer that develops rapidly, making the affected breast red, swollen and tender. It occurs when cancer cells block the lymphatic vessels in skin covering the breast, causing the characteristic red, swollen appearance of the breast.

  • Treatment typically includes chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy.

• Breast Cyst: This is a fluid-filled sac within the breast. They can cause discomfort in some women, and they may enlarge and become tender and painful just before the menstrual period.

  • Treatment may include fine-needle aspiration, medication, or surgery.

Please note that these are potential diagnoses based on the symptoms you've provided. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

While waiting for your appointment with your healthcare provider, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

1. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and swelling.
2. Warm compresses applied to the affected area may also provide some relief.
3. Wearing a supportive bra can help minimize discomfort.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days.
• You notice any changes in the skin of your breast, such as dimpling or puckering.
• You notice any discharge from your nipple, especially if it's bloody.
• You find a new, distinct lump in your breast.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.