[59F] Experiencing significant breast swelling and arm pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible causes for your symptoms:

• Breast Infection (Mastitis): This is an infection of the tissue of the breast 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, but it can happen at any age.

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

• Breast Cancer: Although you have had a mammogram and ultrasound, these tests are not 100% accurate and there is a small chance that they could have missed a cancer. The sudden increase in breast size and the pain you are experiencing could potentially be due to a rare type of breast cancer called inflammatory breast cancer.

  • Treatment typically involves surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.

• Lymphedema: This is a condition characterized by swelling in the arms and legs caused by a blockage in your lymphatic system, which is part of your immune system. The blockage prevents lymph fluid from draining well, and the fluid buildup leads to swelling. The fact that you are experiencing swelling in your hand as well as your breast could potentially be due to this condition.

  • Treatment typically involves exercises, wrapping your arm, massage, pneumatic compression, and compression garments.

• Lupus: This is a systemic autoimmune disease that occurs when your body's immune system attacks your own tissues and organs. It can cause swelling and pain in any part of your body, and can also cause fatigue. However, you mentioned that you have been tested for lupus and the test was negative.

What you can do

1. See a doctor as soon as possible. The sudden increase in breast size and the pain you are experiencing are concerning symptoms that need to be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
2. Try to rest and avoid lifting heavy objects with your affected arm.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help with the pain.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

• You develop a high fever (over 101.5°F).
• You notice red streaks extending from the affected area.
• Your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days.
• You notice any new lumps in your breast or changes in the skin on your breast, such as dimpling or puckering.
• You notice any changes in your nipple or any discharge from your nipple.

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.