What to Do Blood in Breast

Blood in your breast:

Potential Causes:

- Hormonal: Hormonal imbalances, such as those that occur during menstruation or pregnancy, can cause breast tenderness, swelling, and sometimes discharge, including blood.

- Trauma: A direct injury or trauma to the breast can also cause bleeding or discharge. This can occur during activities such as sports or accidents, or even from a bra that fits tightly or has underwire that rubs your skin.

- Nipple Conditions: Certain nipple conditions, including eczema or contact dermatitis, can lead to inflammation, irritation, and bleeding of the nipple.

- Medications: Some medications, including certain birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy, can affect breast tissue and lead to changes such as discharge or bleeding.

- Lumps and Cysts: Non-cancerous lumps or cysts in the breast may sometimes cause bleeding or discharge, especially if they become inflamed or have associated changes within them.

- Breast Cancer: While relatively rare, bloody nipple discharge can be a symptom of breast cancer, especially if it is spontaneous (not related to an injury) and associated with other concerning signs like a change in breast shape or size, or a lump.

Actions:

- Monitor: If you notice blood in your breast, it's important to keep track of the occurrence, including when it happens (e.g., during or outside your period), any associated symptoms, and the appearance of the discharge (e.g., color, consistency).

- Seek Medical Advice: If you're concerned about any symptoms or changes in your breast, it's best to see a healthcare professional, such as a primary care doctor or a gynecologist, for evaluation. In some cases, further testing such as a mammogram, ultrasound, or nipple discharge cytology may be recommended.

- Stay Calm: While blood in the breast can be unsettling, it's essential to remember that it doesn't necessarily indicate a severe problem. Many causes of breast discharge are benign and easily managed.

When to See a Doctor:

- Urgent:

- Bloody nipple discharge that is spontaneous and not related to an injury.

- Any changes in the appearance or texture of the breast skin, including dimpling or puckering.

- A lump or thickening in the breast or under the armpit.

- Within a few days:

- Persistent or recurrent bloody discharge, even if related to your period.

- Nipple discharge that is associated with pain, inflammation, or changes in the nipple's appearance.

- Any new breast symptoms or changes that concern you.