Symptoms of Breast Cysts : Types, Treatment

Managing Breast Cysts: Types, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

What are Breast Cysts?

Typically, a breast cyst is a noncancerous fluid-filled sac present in the breast tissue. It occurs when fluid enters an empty milk duct. Some cysts are too tiny to feel, while others can develop to several inches in size, causing you to feel uncomfortable and even unpleasant, and can occur in either one or both breasts. 

Moreover, these are more likely to form if you are between 35 to 50 years old.

How Does Breast Cyst Occur?

Breast cysts occur when fluid accumulates in the glands of the breast tissue, often due to hormonal changes or natural ageing processes. This fluid buildup can happen within the milk ducts or lobules, forming a sac-like structure filled with clear or cloudy liquid. 

Hormonal fluctuations, especially during the menstrual cycle, are a primary factor influencing cyst formation, as estrogen and progesterone can stimulate the breast tissue, leading to changes in glandular structures and fluid retention.

Cysts can also develop as part of fibrocystic breast changes, a common condition where the breast tissue becomes lumpy or rope-like. These changes are typically benign but may make the breasts feel tender or swollen. Other contributing factors include postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy, which can affect breast tissue and, in some cases, inherited tendencies. 

Where are the Breast Cysts Located?

These cysts can develop anywhere in the breast tissue. However, they are most commonly found in the upper outer part of the breast, near the armpit, where more glandular tissue is present.

What are the Common Symptoms of Breast Cysts?

Many breast cysts are so tiny that you can't even feel them. However, if you have a larger breast cyst, you may feel a lump that is:

• Soft or firm. However, most of them are soft.
• Round and smooth, with definite edges.
• Painful or tender, particularly before menstruation.
• Larger right before your menstruation and smaller after it.
• Easily moves beneath the skin (particularly big cysts).

Breast cysts might be small, like a grain of rice or a pea. They can be as big as a golf ball. Many individuals report cyst changes or soreness soon before their menstruation when hormone levels fluctuate. Others have nipple discharge or localized soreness.

What are the Causes of Breast cysts?

So, what causes breast cysts? Well, the specific cause of breast cysts remains uncertain. Doctors think that normal hormonal fluctuations may cause them to develop. Usually, breast cysts do not form after menopause, when estrogen levels drop. 

Moreover, it is also regarded to be part of a breast's natural life cycle, when the milk-producing glandular tissue decreases, and fluid becomes trapped.

Types of Breast Cysts 

There are mainly three types of breast cysts:

1. Simple Breast Cyst

Simple cysts are entirely filled with just fluid and are never cancerous. The cyst contains no solid areas, and its wall is smooth, and it makes up around 90% of all breast cysts.

2. Complex Breast Cyst

This form of cyst has both fluid and solid components and may be breast cancer in up to 20% of cases.

3. Complicated Breast Cyst

A complex cyst is fluid-filled but can have cloudiness to the fluid. Sometimes, they are aspirated with a needle biopsy, and the tissue is submitted for analysis. Other times, a physician may set up a six-month follow-up appointment since there is a slim risk (less than 2%) that it is cancerous.

Breast cysts can be either microcysts or macrocysts. Most breast tissue contains microcystins, which are very small and may be spotted with an ultrasound or with a microscope. Macrocysts are bigger and may frequently be felt.

How Long Does Breast Cysts Last?

The duration of breast cysts varies depending on the individual and underlying factors. Some cysts may go away on their own over weeks or months, mainly if they are hormonally influenced and linked to menstrual cycles. 

However, persistent or recurring cysts may require medical evaluation. Post-menopausal women, especially those on hormone replacement therapy, may experience prolonged cysts. If symptoms persist or cause discomfort, draining the cyst through a fine needle can provide relief.

What Medications are Required for Breast Cyst Treatment?

Under your doctor's consultation, you might want to try over-the-counter pain drugs like Acetaminophen or Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, which may help with discomfort. 

However, it is necessary to keep track of your breast health by scheduling regular checkups and discussing any breast cyst concerns with your healthcare provider.

Understanding the symptoms and causes of breast cysts can help you manage your breast health effectively. However, frequent self-examinations and regular checkups about the breast cyst help in overall well-being.