What is a female breast cyst?

Female breast cysts are a common benign breast mass, usually caused by abnormal proliferation of breast glands and connective tissue, which may be related to genetics, hormone level fluctuations, lifestyle habits, environmental influences and daily diet. Most breast cysts are benign and will not develop into cancer, but it is still recommended to seek medical attention in time after discovering breast cysts, identify the cause and receive targeted treatment.

1. Genetic factors

Breast problems run in some families. If there is a family history of breast disease, especially breast cysts or breast cancer, women are at increased risk of developing breast cysts. This may be because of the structural characteristics of breast tissue or genes that create an environment that is suitable for cyst formation. If there is a family history, it is recommended that women have regular breast imaging tests (such as ultrasound or mammography) and take hormone level management as appropriate according to the doctor's advice.

2. Fluctuating hormone levels

The formation of breast cysts is closely related to changes in estrogen levels in women. Estrogen stimulates the proliferation of breast glands and connective tissue. When the proliferation is excessive or the breast ducts are blocked, breast fluid cannot be discharged normally, and cysts may form. Common hormone fluctuation factors include menstrual cycle, pregnancy, lactation and menopause. If you suspect that it is caused by hormone fluctuations, you can balance hormone levels by adjusting your lifestyle, avoiding the abuse of external hormones (such as birth control pills or hormone-containing health products), and managing your emotions to reduce stress.

3. Lifestyle and diet

Bad living habits, such as obesity, high-fat diet, lack of exercise, etc., may induce the formation of breast cysts. These factors will increase inflammatory factors and abnormal hormone levels in the body. Studies have found that high-sugar, high-caffeine diets may also aggravate breast cyst symptoms in some people. It is recommended to eat a reasonable diet, reduce the intake of high-calorie, high-sugar and high-caffeine foods, and eat more fruits and vegetables rich in fiber, such as broccoli, spinach, and kiwi. To increase the amount of exercise, you can choose gentle exercise such as walking or yoga, and ensure 4-5 times a week, each time for more than 30 minutes.

4. Environmental factors and stress

Environmental pollution in modern society and endocrine disruptors such as bisphenol A (BPA) in plastic products can interfere with female hormone secretion. Long-term exposure may increase the risk of breast cysts. Coupled with the fast pace of life, high work pressure, and long-term emotional tension, it may also affect the human endocrine system. Ways to improve this aspect are to optimize the living environment, choose glass or containers without harmful substances instead of plastic, and learn to release stress, such as relaxing the body and mind through meditation and breathing exercises.

5. Pathology (cysts caused by diseases)

Chronic breast inflammation can also cause breast cysts. Some women may develop breast cystic changes during lactation due to breast duct infection and blockage. In addition, systemic endocrine disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may also lead to the occurrence of breast cysts. This type of pathological breast cyst requires treatment for the disease itself. For example, patients with chronic inflammation can use anti-inflammatory drugs or local hot compresses; PCOS patients may need drugs to regulate hormones.

How to treat and manage?

Treatment options for breast cysts include:

1. Drug treatment: If the cyst is accompanied by pain during the menstrual cycle, most doctors will recommend oral anti-inflammatory drugs (such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or hormonal drugs (such as progesterone tablets) to relieve symptoms;

2. Aspiration: For single cysts with fluid, when there are no symptoms of infection, doctors can use ultrasound-guided aspiration to extract the fluid and quickly relieve discomfort.

3. Surgical treatment: If the cyst is large, recurs, or is accompanied by suspicious signs of cancer, surgical removal of the diseased tissue may be considered.

Good self-management is also an important measure to prevent breast cysts, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a light diet, and regular breast examinations.

Humanistic care

Breast cysts are not terrible in most cases. Early diagnosis and standardized treatment can help women get rid of discomfort and return to health. Breast health is related to the happiness and quality of life of every woman. Regular physical examinations and not taking physical abnormalities lightly are an attitude of responsibility for yourself and your family. If you feel discomfort in the breast area, do not hesitate to seek help from a doctor to protect your health.