Patient's question:
Breast size asymmetry, sometimes pain in the smaller breast, palpable lump, pain range includes below the clavicle and below the armpit, pain increases before and after menstruation. Duration and onset of this condition: currently generally during menstruation. Medical history: pain has been present for two years. Previous diagnosis and treatment history and effectiveness: never treated. Ancillary examinations: no examinations performed. Other: What symptom is this condition? Is it a symptom of breast cancer?Doctor's answer:
Hello, it is possible! Although in most cases, both breasts are symmetrical, a close observation and comparison may reveal that they are not always exactly the same. Is this a pathological condition of the breasts? Just like other symmetrical organs in the human body are not perfectly symmetrical, slight differences in size and shape between the two breasts are commonly seen and pose no serious issue. For example, one breast may be larger than the other, or one nipple may protrude while the other is slightly retracted, and so on. If this condition has always been present, has not recently developed, and has never caused discomfort, then it is a normal phenomenon and there is no need to worry about it. If there is significant asymmetry between the two breasts, there are several possible causes:First, congenital factors. During embryonic development, if the rudiment of one breast develops abnormally, the two breasts may become significantly asymmetrical during puberty, with the underdeveloped breast being much smaller than the healthy one. Generally, this condition does not affect marriage or fertility but may result in the loss of the unique curves of a woman’s body.
Second, acquired factors. This is usually seen in multiparous women. During breastfeeding, mothers often habitually hold the infant in a certain direction on one side, leading to unequal breastfeeding opportunities between the two breasts. The breast that is more frequently used tends to atrophy and shrink more easily after weaning compared to the other side. This condition usually does not cause discomfort and does not affect daily life. Of course, if the mother alternates breastfeeding between the two breasts, ensuring equal opportunities, this situation can be avoided.
Additionally, if the two breasts were previously roughly symmetrical but have recently become asymmetrical, such as one breast becoming larger, changes in skin color or small indentations on the skin of one breast, retraction or elevation of one nipple, sometimes accompanied by symptoms such as pain, itching, or nipple discharge, this should be given special attention. In such cases, it is important to seek medical attention immediately for relevant examinations to detect any potential abnormalities as early as possible.
Breast pain. Women may experience breast pain or tenderness during their menstrual period or in the days leading up to it, which may be due to hormonal changes associated with menstruation. Most breast pain is not a sign of cancer. At times, breast cysts can also cause pain, and certain substances in food and drinks (such as methylxanthines in coffee) may also lead to breast pain. However, avoiding these substances does not seem to reduce the pain. Most breast pain in women is not severe and may resolve on its own within a few months or years. Severe breast pain is rare and can be treated with medication. Danazol and tamoxifen can be used to relieve severe breast pain.