Question 1

what is fibrocystic breasts?

Accepted Answer

Lumpy-Bumpy Breasts: Fibrocystic changes are a spectrum of pathologic findings seen on biopsy.  This has morphed into a clinical term for "lumpy-bumpy" breast tissue and/or dense tissue seen on mammography.  This is not a disease, just a variant of normal.  This requires no treatment, just reassurance.

Question 2

how common are fibrocystic breasts?

Accepted Answer

Very: Somewhere between 99% and 101% of women will get some fibrous and/or cystic change in their breasts during reproductive life.

Question 3

what are some causes of fibrocystic breasts?

Accepted Answer

Physiologic changes: Usual physiologic changes that include hormonal fluctuations, increase or decrease of different components of breast (pregnancy, lactation, aging), or thick secretions can all cause fibrocystic changes. These are not associated with increase risk of cancer. Regular breast exams and mammograms are still recommended.

Question 4

would fibrocystic breasts have physical changes?

Accepted Answer

Lumps and pain: The breasts will often feel lumpy and tender, enen when not on  your period.  It is important to perform monthly breast self exam.

Question 5

who is most likely to develop fibrocystic breasts?

Accepted Answer

FCD: Fcd deals with the glands in the breast. These glands respond to hormones. Hormones stimulate these glands once a month. Unlike the uterus, where the cells are lost once a month, the cells in the breast need the body to get rid of these cells internally. This sets up inflamation and scaring in the breast that then leads to the fcd.  That is why it usually shows up after 30. Years of age because it.

Question 6

what does it feel like to have fibrocystic breasts?

Accepted Answer

Many characteristics: Fibrocystic breast can have different characteristics- you can feel something that feels like a small "bb", a rock, a pea or just an area of irregular thickness and tenderness.  However any new breast finding or change in breast warrants eval by your doctor and possibly mammogram and/or ultrasound. It is important to be assessed- so make an appointment.

Question 7

how can i relieve pain from my fibrocystic breasts?

Accepted Answer

Decrease caffeine: Look at your diet and see if you are eating or drinking foods that contain caffeine.  Some of the usual offenders: coffee, tea, chocolate, iced tea, soda/pop, energy drinks and powered drink mixes.  Try decreasing your caffeine intake for 2 weeks. If the pain gets better, then caffeine is the problem.
Vitamin e and evening primrose can be used to relieve pain as well.

Question 8

do older women (60+ years) get fibrocystic breasts?

Accepted Answer

Yes.: Although usually presenting at an earlier age, it may occur in later years.  Also, mild  disease may be unnoticed and seen on mammogram.

Question 9

what should a woman do when she has fibrocystic breasts?

Accepted Answer

Be normal & happy!: Our breast tissue is fibrocystic by nature. Some women experience increased pain and lumpiness than others.  If you are having pain, then try dietary modifications (see other posts).  If you are not getting relief, seek out a breast specialist for evaluation.

Question 10

fibrocystic breasts problem, need further info like diet?

Accepted Answer

Fibrocystic breasts: If its a real problem oral contraceptives can regulate the hormones and relieve symptoms in a lot of women.  Or you could try vitamin E supplements, evening primrose oil capsules.  There is some literature about iodine but i don't have any experience with it.

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Fibrocystic breasts

A member asked:

What is fibrocystic breasts?

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How common are fibrocystic breasts?

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What are some causes of fibrocystic breasts?

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Would fibrocystic breasts have physical changes?

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Who is most likely to develop fibrocystic breasts?

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What does it feel like to have fibrocystic breasts?

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How can i relieve pain from my fibrocystic breasts?

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Do older women (60+ years) get fibrocystic breasts?

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What should a woman do when she has fibrocystic breasts?

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Fibrocystic breasts problem, need further info like diet?

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