[35F] Experiencing nipple discharge and breast pain

Patient Description

A 35-year-old female presents with a brown-yellow tacky discharge from the right nipple and pain on the right side between the breast and underarm, rated as an 8 out of 10 in severity. The pain, initially intermittent, has become constant since yesterday. Application of heat seems to alleviate the nipple discharge. The patient has felt warmth in the area of pain but reports no new lumps, fever, or redness. The patient has a medical history of fibromyalgia, Wolf Parkinson White syndrome, and thoracic outlet syndrome, diagnosed 5 and 10 years ago respectively. The patient recently recovered from COVID-19 along with her household. She has an allergy to Amoxicillin, which causes nausea and vomiting. No current medications were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few possibilities:

  • 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 happen at any age. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and in severe cases, drainage of the abscess, if one has formed.

  • Breast abscess: This is a pocket of pus that causes a palpable lump in the breast. Symptoms can include breast pain, fever, chills, and nipple discharge. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and drainage of the abscess.

  • Intraductal papilloma: This is a small, benign (non-cancerous) tumor that grows in a milk duct of the breast. These can cause nipple discharge, as well as discomfort in some cases.

  • Breast cancer: Although less likely, given your age and the acute onset of symptoms, certain types of breast cancer can present with similar symptoms. It's important to have any new breast symptoms evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out this possibility.

What you can do

Given the severity of your pain and the presence of nipple discharge, it's important to seek medical attention promptly. In the meantime, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help to alleviate your pain. Applying a warm compress to the painful area may also provide some relief.

What you should look out for

If you develop a fever, notice redness over the area of pain, or your symptoms worsen, seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of an infection that needs to be treated promptly.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, I am an AI and not a doctor. This advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask

What are the common causes of nipple discharge in women who are not breastfeeding?

Common causes of nipple discharge in non-breastfeeding women include hormonal imbalances, infections like mastitis, benign tumors such as intraductal papillomas, and, less commonly, breast cancer. It's important to have any new or unusual discharge evaluated by a healthcare provider.

How can I differentiate between mastitis and a breast abscess?

Mastitis typically presents with breast pain, swelling, warmth, and sometimes fever and chills. A breast abscess, on the other hand, is a localized collection of pus that may cause a palpable lump, along with similar symptoms. Both conditions require medical evaluation, but an abscess often needs drainage in addition to antibiotics.

What are the symptoms of intraductal papilloma, and how is it treated?

Intraductal papilloma is a benign tumor that can cause nipple discharge, which may be clear or bloody. It can also cause discomfort or a small lump near the nipple. Treatment often involves surgical removal of the papilloma, especially if it causes symptoms or if there's concern about cancer.

When should I be concerned about breast cancer with symptoms like nipple discharge and pain?

While breast cancer is less likely in younger women with acute symptoms, any new breast changes, such as persistent nipple discharge or pain, should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Early detection and diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment, so it's important to seek medical advice if you notice these symptoms.

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