So you found a lump on your breast while performing an at home test... or one morning you just happened to notice the difference. First take a deep breath there are several reasons why you may have a lump. To figure out the next steps keep reading.
What should I do now?
First, lets discuss lumps in general. Lumps can be cancerous but those generally found using at home tests are non-cancerous and are called benign breast condition. These lumps may be linked to your menstrual cycle and will dissipate on their own.
However, to ensure the origins of the lump you have found, it is essential to contact your doctor and set up an appointment.
Tip:
Contact your doctor right away if your lump feels different from your surrounding breast tissue, or your other breast. You should also contact your doctor right away if you're experiencing unexplained nipple discharge.
Not sure if it's really a lump?
It's ok to be uncertain about finding a lump. Many women experience lumpy textures in their breasts. This can be normal if lumps and bumps are felt throughout the breasts without pain this means it is more than likely your normal breast tissue.
Its only when an area feels harder or different than the rest of your breast is noticed that one should consider the area a lump.
However, the best thing to do is play it safe and make an appointment with your doctor and have the area checked out.
BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY!
Other signs and symptoms to watch out for:
Pain in one spot (that is constant)
Change in size or shape of the breast
Rash or sore areas on or around nipples
Swelling in one area or the entirety of breast
Discoloration which includes (redness or darkened tissue)