Breast cysts
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Breast cysts are circular, fluid-filled sacs that usually feel like tiny water filled balloons in the breast. Around 25% of lumps or masses in the breast turn out to be cysts, and they are usually non-cancerous (benign). They can range from very small and undetectable to large enough to feel under the skin. Also, while they are usually squishy, they can sometimes be firm.
Who's more likely to get them?
Breast cysts typically develop in women under the age of 50 and most commonly in their 40s. They can also commonly occur in women who have gone through menopause and who are on hormone therapy.
It is also likely that a woman might have multiple cysts which can sometimes be sore and painful, especially if she is on her period. Because of this, it's important to pay attention to how your boobs feel throughout your period cycle, so that you can notice when something feels abnormal.
Are there different types?
There are three types of breast cysts:
- simple cysts
- complex cysts
- complicated cysts
Simple cysts
Simple cysts have smooth borders and are completely fluid with no solid elements. They will always be non-cancerous.
Complex cysts
Complex cysts will have irregular, bumpy borders and may have solid elements within them. If this is the case, the doctor might drain the cyst and test the fluid for anything suspicious that could indicate breast cancer. However, please keep in mind that breast cysts are usually non-cancerous.
Complicated cysts
Complicated cysts fall somewhere in between a simple cyst and a complex cyst. They are mostly fluid but may have tiny pieces that are unclear.
Unlike complex cysts, they don't have thick walls, nor do they have obvious solid structure in them.
Treatment
Complex and complicated cysts will most likely have additional treatment, whereas simple cysts will usually not require further action. However, if a simple cyst is large or painful, the doctor may suggest draining the cyst and scheduling routine check ups.
It is always important to do self breast exams montly to feel for any lumps or changes in the breast. If you find anything in your self exam, book an appointment as soon as possible to rule out breast cancer.
Talk to me.
Breast cysts are circular, fluid-filled sacs that usually feel like tiny water filled balloons in the breast. Around 25% of lumps or masses in the breast turn out to be cysts, and they are usually non-cancerous (benign). They can range from very small and undetectable to large enough to feel under the skin. Also, while they are usually squishy, they can sometimes be firm.
Who's more likely to get them?
Breast cysts typically develop in women under the age of 50 and most commonly in their 40s. They can also commonly occur in women who have gone through menopause and who are on hormone therapy.
It is also likely that a woman might have multiple cysts which can sometimes be sore and painful, especially if she is on her period. Because of this, it's important to pay attention to how your boobs feel throughout your period cycle, so that you can notice when something feels abnormal.
Are there different types?
There are three types of breast cysts:
- simple cysts
- complex cysts
- complicated cysts
Simple cysts
Simple cysts have smooth borders and are completely fluid with no solid elements. They will always be non-cancerous.
Complex cysts
Complex cysts will have irregular, bumpy borders and may have solid elements within them. If this is the case, the doctor might drain the cyst and test the fluid for anything suspicious that could indicate breast cancer. However, please keep in mind that breast cysts are usually non-cancerous.
Complicated cysts
Complicated cysts fall somewhere in between a simple cyst and a complex cyst. They are mostly fluid but may have tiny pieces that are unclear.
Unlike complex cysts, they don't have thick walls, nor do they have obvious solid structure in them.
Treatment
Complex and complicated cysts will most likely have additional treatment, whereas simple cysts will usually not require further action. However, if a simple cyst is large or painful, the doctor may suggest draining the cyst and scheduling routine check ups.
It is always important to do self breast exams montly to feel for any lumps or changes in the breast. If you find anything in your self exam, book an appointment as soon as possible to rule out breast cancer.
Symptom list:
Breast cysts
Financial support
Not all of us are able to afford the treatment we need. Search your insurance coverage, or check out what charities may be able to offer you for your condition.
p.s. Just because you have insurance, that doesn't mean that charities or other organizations are not able to support you too.
Emotional support
Whether it's a free counseling session or to find someone with a similar diagnosis, these Germie approved charities might be able to help. Click to explore their offerings!
