[30F] Experiencing breast discomfort and localized swelling

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possible conditions:

• Mastitis: This is an infection of the breast tissue that results in breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness. You might also have flu-like symptoms such as 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 to clear the infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers might also help reduce the pain and inflammation.

• Breast abscess: A pocket of pus that causes a tender, swollen lump in the breast. This can occur if mastitis is not treated promptly.

  • Treatment usually involves draining the abscess, either with a needle or through a small cut in the skin.

• Inflammatory breast cancer: This is a rare type of breast cancer that causes changes to the skin of the breast, such as redness, swelling, and an orange-peel texture. However, you mentioned that you haven't noticed any changes to the skin of your breast.

  • Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy.

• Breast cyst: A fluid-filled sac within the breast, which can cause a lump, pain, and tenderness. These are common in women in their 30s and 40s and often disappear after menopause.

  • Treatment may involve draining the fluid from the cyst.

What you can do

You should seek medical attention as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In the meantime, you can try the following:

1. Apply a warm compress to the sore area to help reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help reduce pain.
3. Avoid tight clothing and bras, which may exacerbate the pain and swelling.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days.
• You notice changes to the skin of your breast, such as redness, warmth, or an orange-peel texture.
• You develop a fever or chills, which could indicate an infection.

Please note that while these suggestions are based on the symptoms you've described, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.