If you are worried about breast pain or breast cancer that comes on suddenly, solve it with regular checkups

[Medical Today = Reporter Kim Junsu] Breast pain is a relatively common symptom experienced by many, with around 70% of women reporting it at some point. Cyclical breast pain, typically occurring in women in their 20s and 30s, is often linked to menstrual cycles and can continue until menopause. Non-cyclical breast pain is frequently reported in women in their mid-30s and older and is becoming more common in postmenopausal women due to an increase in hormone replacement therapy.

Generally, most breast pain is regarded as a normal physiological occurrence, with fewer than 5% of breast cancer patients citing it as a symptom. However, it is crucial to remember that breast pain can sometimes be the sole indicator of breast cancer. Specifically, postmenopausal breast pain is more likely to be associated with malignant conditions, warranting caution. Breast pain linked to cancer typically presents on one side, is persistent, and is severe; thus, experiencing these symptoms necessitates a visit to a hospital. For patients over the age of 35 experiencing breast pain, it is advised to undergo follow-up assessments for over a year if the pain continues, even if no cancer is detected.

Dr. Lee Ji-eun from the Ewha & Yoo Radiology Clinic, a specialist in radiology, emphasized that “breast pain is often a temporary symptom resulting from physiological and cyclical changes. However, if the pain lasts more than a week or is severe enough to hinder daily activities, it is essential to seek medical attention. Even when breast examinations yield no special findings, periodic assessments to exclude malignancy are advisable.”

▲ Dr. Lee Ji-eun (Photo = Provided by Lee Hwa & Yoo Young Medical Clinic)

The director continued, “Since breast cancer originates from small, malignant tumor tissues that are imperceptible externally, early detection and prompt treatment are crucial. The prognosis for breast cancer is generally better than for other cancers. If detected in the early stages (stages 0-2), the survival treatment rate exceeds 90%, while it drops significantly to below 30% if diagnosed at stage 4. Therefore, women over 40 should have regular screenings every two years.”

Due to the prevalence of dense breast tissue among many Korean women, breast cancer screenings are generally recommended to include both mammography and ultrasound examinations. If any abnormalities are discovered, a biopsy is necessary. Recently, the VAB procedure (Vacuum Assisted Breast Biopsy), also known as the Mammotome/ENCO procedure, has become the preferred option. The VAB procedure incurs minimal invasion, approximately 3mm, and is performed within a short duration of less than 30 minutes after local anesthesia is administered to the skin of the affected breast area. This method leaves almost no scars and is recognized as a safe and highly accurate technique, making it increasingly utilized for the removal of benign tumors.

Dr. Lee noted that “in fact, 90% of patients who report breast pain do not require special treatment, as the discomfort usually resolves on its own over time. However, in severe cases, relief can be obtained through warm compresses or pain relievers, and it is advisable to limit caffeine and high-fat, high-sodium foods which might exacerbate breast pain.” He advised, “Instead of disregarding breast pain, it is important to visit a nearby hospital for an accurate diagnosis. Developing the habit of palpating or examining the breast area to check for lumps or skin changes will aid in the early detection of breast cancer.”

Medical Today Reporter Junsu Kim ([e-mail])

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<h1>Understanding Breast Pain: Causes, Types, and When to Seek Medical Attention</h1>

<p>[메디컬투데이=김준수 기자] Breast pain is a relatively common symptom experienced by women globally. Statistically, about 70% of women report experiencing some form of breast pain. This discomfort can manifest as cyclical breast pain, often occurring in women in their 20s and 30s, commonly linked to the menstrual cycle, and may persist right before menopause. In contrast, non-cyclical breast pain tends to affect women in their mid-30s and older, with increasing reports in postmenopausal women due to rising use of hormone replacement therapy.</p>

<h2>Types of Breast Pain</h2>

<p>Breast pain can be categorized into two main types:</p>
<ul>
    <li><strong>Cyclical Breast Pain:</strong> Often correlated with menstrual cycles, this type of pain fluctuates in intensity and is typically temporary.</li>
    <li><strong>Non-Cyclical Breast Pain:</strong> More prevalent in older women, this pain may be chronic, unrelated to hormonal changes, and often requires further investigation.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Breast Pain and Cancer Risk</h2>

<p>While most instances of breast pain are deemed normal physiological phenomena, it is crucial to note that less than 5% of breast cancer patients report breast pain as a symptom. However, breast pain can sometimes be the only indicator of breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women. Symptoms suggestive of malignancy include pain that is:</p>
<ul>
    <li>Localized to one side</li>
    <li>Persistent and severe</li>
</ul>

<p>If you experience these symptoms, it is imperative to consult a healthcare professional promptly. For women over 35 experiencing persistent breast pain, following up for over a year is generally recommended, regardless of initial cancer screenings.</p>

<h2>Professional Insights on Breast Pain</h2>

<p>According to Director Lee Ji-eun from the Ewha & Yoo Radiology Clinic, “Breast pain is often a temporary symptom caused by physiological and cyclical changes. However, if the pain persists for more than a week or is severe enough to interfere with daily life, timely medical evaluation becomes essential.” While many do not require treatment, if severe, pain may be alleviated by warm compresses or over-the-counter pain relievers. It’s advised to limit caffeine intake and avoid high-fat or high-sodium foods that may exacerbate breast pain.</p>

<h3>The Importance of Early Detection</h3>

<p>Director Lee emphasizes the importance of early detection of breast cancer, stating, “Breast cancer starts with small malignant tumors that may not be visible externally. Early discovery often leads to quicker and more effective treatment.” The prognosis is significantly better for cancers detected in the early stages (stages 0-2), with survival rates exceeding 90%. In contrast, stage 4 cancers reveal a stark decline in survival rates to below 30%.</p>

<img src="https://mdtcdn.iwinv.biz/news/data/20240812/p1065575914859895_218_thum.jpg" alt="Director Lee Ji-eun" style="width: 100%; height: auto;" />
<p>▲ Director Lee Ji-eun (Photo = Provided by Lee Hwa & Yoo Young Medical Clinic)</p>

<h2>Screening Recommendations for Breast Health</h2>

<p>Due to the dense breast tissue common among many Korean women, breast cancer screening typically involves a combination of mammography and ultrasound examinations. If abnormalities are detected, a biopsy, such as the Vacuum Assisted Breast Biopsy (VAB) procedure, may be employed. This minimally invasive technique, performed under local anesthesia, offers several benefits: it is quick (lasting less than 30 minutes), leaves minimal scarring, and is highly accurate, making it increasingly popular for benign tumor removal.</p>

<h2>Managing Breast Pain and Promoting Awareness</h2>

<h3>Self-Examination Techniques</h3>

<p>Incorporating self-examination as a routine can significantly aid in early detection of potential issues. Here are a few simple steps for breast self-examination:</p>
<ol>
    <li>Stand before a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look for any physical changes in size, shape, or color.</li>
    <li>Raise your arms above your head and repeat the inspection.</li>
    <li>While lying down, use the pads of your fingers to feel for any lumps or abnormalities, moving in a circular pattern across the entire breast.</li>
    <li>Lastly, check for any unusual discharge from the nipples.</li>
</ol>

<p>Establishing a habit of thorough self-checks every month can bolster early detection efforts and improve outcomes significantly.</p>

<h2>Practical Tips for Managing Breast Pain</h2>

<ul>
    <li><strong>Warm Compresses:</strong> Applying warmth to the affected area may help ease discomfort.</li>
    <li><strong>Pain Relievers:</strong> Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen can provide temporary relief.</li>
    <li><strong>Dietary Adjustments:</strong> Reducing caffeine and avoiding high-fat and high-sodium foods might mitigate breast pain.</li>
    <li><strong>Regular Check-Ups:</strong> Women over 40 are encouraged to get screened every two years for optimal health.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Case Studies and Personal Experiences</h2>

<p>Numerous women have shared their experiences regarding breast pain, noting the emotional and physical barriers they faced before seeking help. Many reported initial hesitance due to stigma surrounding breast health and cancer, underlining the importance of open conversations about breast health to alleviate fears and encourage timely medical visits. These testimonials reinforce the notion that proactive health management and awareness can save lives.</p>

<p>Medical Today Reporter Junsu Kim ([e-mail])</p>

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