Your Care Instructions
Breast lumps can come and go and are common in many teens. Your breasts may feel lumpy and sore before your menstrual period. Some women may have lumps when they are breastfeeding.
Most lumps are normal and go away on their own. But it's important to see your doctor to check any changes you find to make sure you don't have cancer. Have your doctor check any lumps that are larger, harder, or not the same as the rest of your breast tissue.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse call line if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Get to know how your breasts feel. Keep track of your breast lumps with a self-examination for one or two menstrual cycles. Call your doctor or nurse call line if your breast lumps get bigger or harder or don't go away.
- If a lump is tender, try an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- Go to follow-up visits as advised by your doctor. If your doctor tells you to, get an ultrasound examination.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor or nurse call line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You get a fever and your breast feels warm and looks red. You may have an abscess caused by an infection. (This is most common in women who are breastfeeding.)
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse call line if:
- You find a lump that is larger, harder, or different than the rest of your breast tissue.
