Are breast cysts normal?

Breast cysts are a common benign breast lesion and are usually normal, but the need for further examination or treatment depends on the size, texture, and whether there is pain or other symptoms. Treatment of breast cysts can start with etiology analysis, lifestyle adjustments, and medical intervention.

1. Causes and risks of breast cysts

Breast cysts are usually caused by abnormal accumulation of fluid secreted by the breast glands. There are several main reasons:

(1) Fluctuations in hormone levels: Excessive estrogen secretion or imbalance in hormone levels is one of the important causes of breast cysts, especially at a certain stage of the menstrual cycle or before menopause.

(2) Genetic factors: If there is a family history of breast disease, the risk of developing breast cysts may be higher.

(3) Breast hyperplasia: Hyperplasia of mammary ducts or glands may cause accumulation of cystic fluid and form breast cysts.

(4) Diet and lifestyle habits: Excessive intake of high-fat foods, high stress, or irregular work and rest schedules may induce breast cysts.

2. Treatment of breast cysts

(1) Observation and follow-up: If the cyst is small (usually less than 1 cm) and has no obvious symptoms, its changes can be observed through regular breast ultrasound examinations.

(2) Improve your lifestyle: Reducing high-fat diet and eating more foods rich in vitamin E and fiber (such as nuts and whole grains) can help improve breast health; at the same time, it is also important to maintain a regular schedule and reduce stress.

(3) Drug treatment: Some breast cysts may require drug intervention. For example, the doctor may prescribe birth control pills or progesterone drugs to regulate hormone levels based on hormone fluctuations.

(4) Suction and drainage and surgical treatment: For larger cysts, painful cysts, or cysts suspected of malignant transformation, the doctor may recommend fine needle aspiration of cyst fluid and, if necessary, surgical resection to confirm the diagnosis and avoid recurrence.

(5) Traditional Chinese medicine conditioning: Traditional Chinese medicine often assists in relieving cystic breast disease by intervening in liver depression and qi stagnation, promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, etc. For example, you can try medicated diet that soothes the liver and relieves depression (such as rose and lotus leaf tea), but it must be used under the guidance of a doctor.

3. When to seek medical attention

Breast cysts are generally benign lesions, but if you experience the following symptoms, you must see a doctor as soon as possible:

(1) The cyst grows rapidly in a short period of time;

(2) Accompanied by obvious breast pain, redness, swelling, or skin dimpling or orange peel-like changes;

(3) Nipple discharge, especially bloody discharge;

(4) There is a family history of breast cancer or the cyst feels hard and has unclear boundaries.

Breast cysts generally do not pose a threat to health, but you still need to have regular checkups based on your condition to ensure that the cysts are not malignant. If you have any concerns, it is recommended that you see a doctor as soon as possible and work with your doctor to develop a personalized monitoring and treatment plan to ensure breast health.