Painful lumps in breast and discharge

**catwork** · 11-08-2010 01:47 PM

Since July I have had painful lumps in my breasts and discharge from both breasts, although one is worse than the other.
Have been to my GP in July and got referred to a specialist, I was scanned and told I had cysts and he didn't know whether the discharge was connected to them or not but he was concerned because the tests showed the discharge contained blood.
He said the cysts were due to stress and told me to come back in 6 weeks.
So in September I saw him again and the symptoms hadnt changed - once I touch them they become very sore, the lumps were still there.
The doctor looked at the discharge again and there was still blood. I was offered an operation on my milk ducts and said he would see me again in December, when he could drain the cysts with a needle if they were still there.
We then moved house, and I went to my new GP who said I shouldn't wait till December, and referred me to my new local breast specialist.
Today I saw him, and he dismissed the idea of draining the cysts, it felt like he wasn't bothered, I told him about the blood in my discharge and he didn't even test again to see if it was still there.
He basically said there is nothing that can be done and they may subside, although he could not tell me how long it would be - he said it was hormonal and I questioned why it has been constant since July, without settling, and he just said it was my body.
It is causing me a lot of pain and has severely affected my sex life.
Does anyone have any suggestions which can help me get this sorted? Do I just have to put up with it?

**pretzel** · 11-08-2010 01:54 PM

Get a second opinion. If it's insurance, check with your carrier and find another network provider.

There's no reason you have to settle for this one doc's opinion. It's your body and you have the right to be comfortable with the information you're being given about that body.

**JustHormonious** · 11-08-2010 03:06 PM

Hi Cat,

If you don't mind me asking, how old are you?

I've had many years experience with breast cyst. Some times they would come and go, and other times they stayed around for what seemed like forever. Mine always came in clusters of 3 for whatever reason. Depending on the doctor, some will drain the cysts and check the fluid and others may not. Just remember you are in control of your health and well being. If you want the cysts drained it is your right, it only takes a minute to have it done. You mentioned that you had discharge from your nipple, does this happen on its own or when pressure is applied?

What the doctor told you about it being hormone related is absolutely right. Breast cysts are usually caused by estrogen dominance. If you choose to have the needle aspiration it will relieve the pressure and soreness. Just be aware that if your estrogen levels remain high the cysts may return. If you can get your levels under control the cysts will drain naturally. This can be done with dietary changes. I had to get rid of my two best friends: Caffeine and refined sugar..

The trade off benefits: 7 years free of breast and ovarian cysts. Well worth it to me, my hormones are playing nice with each other now.

~B