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What are breast nodules? A detailed explanation from Traditional Chinese Medicine on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment methods of breast nodules.


Release time:

2024-10-11

Breast nodules are solid or liquid lumps that form in the breast tissue, categorized in traditional Chinese medicine as "breast lumps." Breast nodules can be benign or malignant; in most cases, breast nodules are benign. Common benign breast nodules include breast hyperplasia and fibroadenoma.

What are breast nodules?

Breast nodules are solid or liquid lumps that form in breast tissue, categorized under traditional Chinese medicine as "breast lumps." Breast nodules can be benign or malignant; in most cases, they are benign. Common benign breast nodules include breast hyperplasia and fibroadenoma. However, in certain special cases, these nodules may represent abnormal growths, such as breast cancer, which is a malignant tumor. If not detected and treated in a timely manner, it can pose significant health risks to patients.

 

Causes and symptoms of breast nodules

Benign breast nodules include breast hyperplasia and fibroadenoma. Breast hyperplasia is usually related to the menstrual cycle and emotions. Generally, hyperplastic nodules may change in size and hardness during the menstrual cycle or emotional fluctuations. Many women may feel the nodules harden, enlarge, and become painful before menstruation, but the pain usually alleviates or disappears after menstruation.

 

On the other hand, fibroadenoma is common in young women and is a type of benign tumor related to the stimulation of female hormones. When breast tissue senses changes in female hormones, it may lead to excessive tissue growth, forming fibroadenomas. Fibroadenomas typically do not have significant symptoms, are smooth on the surface, easily movable, and have clear edges. Only a few patients may experience breast pain or nipple discharge.

 

Comparison of types of breast nodules

Breast diseases are an important issue in women's health, with breast hyperplasia being the most common condition. According to statistics, over 70% of women are affected by breast hyperplasia. Breast hyperplasia may occur in one or both breasts and is often characterized by symptoms such as breast pain, nipple discharge, and breast nodules. Generally, breast hyperplasia hardens before menstruation and returns to a softer state after the menstrual period.

Another common breast disease is fibroadenoma, which mainly occurs in young women. Fibroadenomas usually present as a single nodule, but they can also appear bilaterally. These nodules are generally round or oval, with a smooth surface and clear boundaries. Compared to ordinary breast hyperplastic nodules, breast cancer is more serious. Breast cancer nodules are hard, non-tender, have indistinct contours, poor mobility, and grow rapidly. They may also be accompanied by enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit or above the collarbone, nipple retraction, and orange peel-like changes in the breast skin. Women should remain vigilant about these symptoms and seek medical attention early to ensure breast health.


How to diagnose breast nodules

Breast ultrasound and mammography are currently common methods for examining breast nodules. Doctors usually recommend mammography and ultrasound for women over 40. For asymptomatic women under 40, breast ultrasound is recommended for screening. Breast ultrasound uses ultrasound energy to scan breast tissue, with the advantage of no radiation and the ability to detect small tumors and nodules. In contrast, mammography uses X-rays to take images, which can help identify calcifications in breast tissue and detect early precancerous lesions. However, for younger women with dense breast tissue, mammography may not effectively detect lumps.

Nodules caused by breast hyperplasia can usually be treated conservatively, such as taking traditional Chinese medicine. Remedies like Xiaoyao San and Erxian Decoction can be used, or Chaihu Shugan San, Xiaoyao San, and Sini San for liver qi regulation. If it is a fibroadenoma that grows rapidly or is large, surgical removal may be considered. As for breast cancer, prompt targeted treatment is necessary, such as surgery, endocrine therapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or targeted therapy.


Methods to prevent breast nodules

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that breast lumps are often related to emotional stress, worry, anger, and fatigue. Therefore, managing stress in daily life is very important. It is essential to find suitable stress relief methods, such as exercise and meditation, which can help alleviate stress and maintain physical and mental health. Additionally, being cautious about hormonal imbalances is also crucial. Unless guided by a doctor, we should avoid using hormone supplements, especially long-term use, as this can help reduce the risk of breast cancer. Furthermore, regular breast examinations are essential.
Learning the correct method for breast self-examination, performing self-exams monthly, and combining regular mammograms and ultrasounds can help detect any abnormalities early.
and receive treatment.

 

Visit a professional medical institution to diagnose breast nodules.

If you find a lump in your breast during self-examination, it is crucial to seek professional medical help promptly and receive appropriate treatment if necessary. This is very important because breast lumps may be signs of serious health issues. A professional doctor can assist you with further examinations, determine the nature of the lump, and provide appropriate treatment plans. Remember, early detection and treatment are key to preventing breast diseases. I hope everyone values their health, seeks professional help, and maintains a healthy lifestyle to "prepare for breast health" and prevent disease occurrence.


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