Fibrocystic Breast Changes
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
Fibrocystic changes are changes in your breast tissue. Your breast tissue may have small cysts, benign lumps (not cancer), or thickened areas. These breast tissue changes are common in women who have not gone through menopause. Fibrocystic breast changes do not increase your risk of breast cancer. The cause of fibrocystic breast changes is unknown. They may be related to hormonal changes that occur during your menstrual cycle.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You notice other changes in your breasts or nipples, such as dimpling or a rash.
- You have bloody nipple discharge.
- You have a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) may be recommended by your healthcare provider. These may help to decrease the level of hormones that worsen your signs and symptoms.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Manage your symptoms:
- Apply heat on your breasts for 20 to 30 minutes every 2 hours for as many days as directed. Heat helps decrease pain and muscle spasms.
- Apply ice on your breasts for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel. Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain.
- Wear a well-fitted, supportive bra. It may help to relieve pain and swelling.
- Avoid or limit caffeine. This may help to decrease symptoms in some women. Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, sodas, and chocolate.
Continue breast self-exams:
Check your breast for changes in size, shape, or feel of the breast tissue. Check under your arms and all around your breasts. If you have monthly periods, examine your breasts after your period is over. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any changes in your breasts. If you have questions, ask for more information about how to do a breast self-exam.
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Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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