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154
FAMILY ILLNESS

Breast problems

It is important to familiarize yourself with the normal look and feel of your breasts so that you are able to detect any changes in them( see Breasts: self-examination, p. 69). Most breast problems are not serious, but consult your doctor if you notice any changes. Minor conditions clearly related to breastfeeding usually respond well to simple treatments.
What is the nature of your symptoms?
Small, hard lump in breast
Swollen, hard, and tender breasts
START
Are you breastfeeding a baby?
Breastfeeding
Where is the problem?
In the breast
Redness of part or all of one breast
None of the above
Not breastfeeding
ACTION
On the nipple
What is the nature of your breast problem?
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you cannot identify a possible cause for your breast problem from this chart.
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR These symptoms may be caused by minor problems that are easily treatable or that need no treatment. However, such changes must be investigated promptly to rule out the chance of breast cancer.
Single lump in the breast
A nipple has changed in appearance
Discharge from the nipple
Breasts feel tender
How is your nipple affected?
Tender only when feeding
Tender and painful all the time
ACTION
Breasts feel lumpy and hard
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR Discharge from the nipple may be caused by a local infection or a hormonal problem. However, the possibility of breast cancer needs to be ruled out.
None of the above
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you cannot identify a possible cause for your breast problem from this chart.