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Tuesday, April 05, 2011 nikki asks

Q: Hi,please help me. I have this small dark spot on my left nipple that's flaky and itchy.My left nipple itself is itchy too.It's been 2 weeks since I had it. Im only 14 but Im still worried.

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Answers (1)
PJ Hamel, Health Guide
4/ 5/11 5:26pm

Hi Nikki - As you say, you're only 14; the chance of you having breast cancer is probably less than 1 in a million, so please don't stress over this. Our post on itchy nipples will hopefully give you an idea of what's causing this; it could be something as simple as a skin irritation, an allergy to a new laundry soap or shower gel, or a bra that's rubbing in the wrong spot. If it lasts another couple of weeks; and certainly if it gets worse, you'd want to see a doctor, as you might have a minor infection of some kind. Also, you might consider telling your mom, or showing this to the school nurse; it's good to share your health issues with someone who can help you do something about them – embarrassing as it sometimes can be! Take care- PJH

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4/ 5/11 8:25pm

It's not Paget's Disease of the breast is it doctor? Because if I compare both of my breasts, the left nipple is like red and larger and the areola is darker compared to the right nipple.

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PJ Hamel, Health Guide
4/ 5/11 8:36pm

Nikki, I'm not a doctor - just a breast cancer survivor. That's why I suggested you talk to an adult who can help you. As I said, at age 14, it's virtually impossible for you to have breast cancer, let alone Paget's, which in and of itself is a very rare form of breast cancer. Since you seem quite stressed, though, take action: action trumps worry every time. Either speak to your parent or an adult female relative; or to your school nurse; ask them to make an appointment for you to see a doctor, and get your concerns out in front of a professional, who can figure out what's causing this, and get you some help. Good luck - PJH

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4/ 5/11 9:23pm

Thank you so much for lessening my constant worrying! I have been worrying about it ever since I noticed that there was something wrong. I will tell you what happens just in case I tell my mom and she requested for a doctor's appointment.

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By nikki— Last Modified: 04/05/11, First Published: 04/05/11