Hello;
I have a question. I was diagnosed with Fibriotic Cysts about 7 years ago. I was never really told anything other than I had them in my breasts.
When I was about 12, my then family doc said I was lumpy and referred to my breasts as being "ropey".
I was curious about more information since I hadn't gotten any. They seem to really bother me during my period, to the point of throbbing so bad that they can't be touched, even a bra aggrivates me.
Is this something that will worsen over time or is it a fairly common thing?
As a side note, they don't bother me every month but it seems to be when I have very heavy periods which is about every 3 months. I do drink alot of caffeine, I was told that also can be a contributing factor.
Thanks.
Fibrocystic Breast are just what you described "lumpy" breasts and it's quite common in women.
I also have the same, nothing has changed over the years with one exception. A few years ago I noticed increased discomfort with a bra on which did not subside after my period. I did the whole routine breast exam and found a larger lump. Okay, gave it another week seemed larger went to a breast surgeon cut out the caffeine, decrease sugar, and decrease salt. Within another month it was very painful and had it removed--benign tumor.
Never had another issue since, and went back to drinking caffeine but in moderate amounts. Sometimes they can be problematic and require surgical removal but many have no real issues. Be certain you do monthly breast exams b/c you will detect a change if there is an abnormal area.
I at times need to skip the bra if there is a lot of tenderness and pressure. Sometimes I just take it off if I am hanging around the house. Sometimes I cannot put one on at all. I am only a B so I can slide without having to wear one. If you are large, buy good bras which provide for excellent support.
http://womenshealth.about.com/cs/cysticbreasts/a/fibcysbrlubupan.htm
Off the caffeine (both of you!)! There is no reason for this to get worse until menopause and then all bets are off. Make certain you do your annual mammogram and learn what is "in ther" by feel so you can still do self-exams every month.
Of the patients I have followed over the years, none has required surgery and those that stayed off the caffeine (did I mention that?) had no real problems.
I have this too and get the same extreme pain that starts a week or so before my period. I also get a ton of swelling.
The only thing that helps a TINY bit for me is to wear a loose fitting sports bra during the day, and nothing while sleeping.