Can breast nodules be treated with acupuncture?

Can breast nodules be treated with acupuncture? The answer is: acupuncture is not a conventional method for treating breast nodules. Breast nodules are mainly divided into two categories: benign and malignant. Breast nodules of different natures require corresponding treatment methods according to their causes and evaluation results, such as observation and follow-up, drug therapy, surgical treatment, etc. As a minimally invasive device, acupuncture is only used to treat specific types of diseases (such as soft tissue injuries). Its application in breast nodules is relatively limited and lacks clinical evidence support. To determine whether the treatment method is appropriate, the nature of the nodule must be clarified first. The following content will further explain the causes of breast nodules and scientific treatment methods.

1. The main causes of breast nodules

The appearance of breast nodules is closely related to the following aspects:

1. Genetic factors

Family inheritance is one of the important causes of breast nodules. If a direct relative (such as a mother or sister) has a history of benign breast lesions or breast cancer, the probability of their children developing breast nodules will increase. Genetic factors can affect the proliferation or abnormal differentiation of breast cells, which may cause the formation of nodules.

Recommendation: Women with a family history should undergo regular breast ultrasound screening starting at the age of 20, supplemented by breast mammography or genetic testing if necessary.

2. Environmental factors and lifestyle habits

Long-term mental stress, a high-fat and high-sugar diet, and irregular nighttime sleep and rest can disrupt women's hormone levels and increase the risk of breast nodules. Exposure to certain environmental estrogens (such as plasticizers) may also induce nodules.

Recommendations: Maintain a regular work and rest schedule, eat a balanced diet, and reduce anxiety. Exercise for at least 150 minutes a week (such as brisk walking, yoga, etc.) to help regulate your endocrine system.

3. Physiological hormone fluctuations

Imbalances in estrogen and progesterone levels are a common cause of breast nodules, usually related to hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, lactation, or perimenopause.

Recommendation: Pay attention to normal changes in the menstrual cycle. If breast discomfort occurs, promptly evaluate breast health through B-ultrasound.

4. Pathological causes

(1) Benign lesions: The most common are fibroadenomas, breast cysts, and intraductal papilloma.

(2) Malignant lesions: Early breast cancer may also manifest as hard lumps such as nodules, which require special attention.

Recommendation: If you find any abnormal symptoms such as palpable lumps, pain, skin depression, etc. in the breast, you should seek medical attention immediately, and pay special attention to cooperating with a puncture biopsy to clarify the nature of the disease.

2. Scientific treatment methods for breast nodules

The treatment method for breast nodules should be selected according to the nature of the nodules, symptoms and the patient's overall condition:

1. Observation and follow-up

Doctors usually recommend regular follow-up for benign, asymptomatic nodules, using breast ultrasound to track changes, usually every 3 to 6 months.

Note: Maintain an optimistic mood in daily life, avoid high-fat diet, and take endocrine regulating health care drugs when necessary.

2. Drug treatment

(1) Traditional Chinese medicine conditioning: Patients with benign breast nodules can consider traditional Chinese medicine internal conditioning drugs, such as Xiaoyao Pills and Rupixiao Granules.

(2) Western medicine intervention: For breast hyperplasia caused by abnormal hormone levels, doctors may prescribe anti-estrogen drugs such as tamoxifen.

(3) Lifestyle intervention: Assisted by adjusting sleep and nutritional balance, to provide a good recovery environment for drug treatment.

Note: Any medication must be used under the guidance of a doctor to avoid side effects from self-medication.

3. Surgical treatment

Surgery is indicated for rapidly enlarging nodules, pain, or patients at high risk of malignancy. Common procedures include:

(1) Minimally invasive atherectomy: suitable for the removal of small nodules, with little trauma and quick recovery;

(2) Ductoscopy: removes the contents of the duct and can be used in cases of nipple discharge;

(3) Open resection surgery under general anesthesia: suitable for breast nodules suspected of malignant lesions or complex structures.

Postoperative recovery: Eat a light diet, avoid heavy physical labor, and have regular checkups.

3. Application of small needle knife in breast nodules

The micro-acupuncture knife is mainly used for diseases such as soft tissue tenosynovitis and neck and shoulder muscle spasms. Since breast nodules themselves are not soft tissue fibrosis lesions, their internal structure is different from the treatment range of the micro-acupuncture knife. The micro-acupuncture knife is not suitable for routine use in the treatment of breast nodules, and it lacks large-scale clinical verification.

The treatment of breast nodules needs to respect the cause and nature of the disease, and never choose a treatment blindly. Whether it is clinical observation, drug treatment, or surgery, it must be performed under the guidance of a doctor. After discovering a nodule, you should maintain a stable mentality, understand its nature through formal examinations, and choose a scientific and effective way to manage the condition. Developing the habit of regular screening, healthy diet, and good work and rest can not only protect breast health, but also help improve the overall quality of life. Breast health is related to women's happiness. Let us care for ourselves and those around us.