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Monday, October 29, 2012 meplusthree asks

Q: I'm 22 and I found a lump on my right breast about two months ago. What could it be?

My breast fills heavy and is swollen. It doesn't hurt me at all, although it has been quite itchy. I've cut caffeine out of my diet since discovering it. I've never been very busty in the first place so this lump takes up most of the side of my small breast. I have been on mirena birth control for a little over two yrs now.
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Answers (2)
PJ Hamel, Health Guide
10/29/12 4:53pm

Since this is a new lump that's been noticeable for over a month, it qualifies as a breast change, and all breast changes should be seen and evaluated by a doctor. There's every chance this has nothing to do with cancer; breast lumps can have many different causes. However, you do need to rule out cancer, even at your age when it's incredibly rare; so please see a doctor, OK?

 

BTW, in case you're uninsured, not having health insurance is not a good reason to avoid the doctor; speak to the folks at your local hsopital, and ask them what kind of programs they have for women without insurance. There's every chance your diagnostic process will be quite inexpensive, and possibly even free. Good luck - PJH

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Phyllis Johnson, Health Guide
10/29/12 7:23pm

PJ is absolutely right.  With a lump that has lasted longer than a month accompanied by swelling and itching, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible.  Breast cancer is unusual in women your age, so it will probably turn out that this is some sort of infection or benign lump.  It could be some sort of response to the hormones in your birth control although usually those hormonal variations are more likely to affect both breasts. However, it is important to rule out cancer as the cause of your symptoms so that you can have peace of mind. 

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By meplusthree— Last Modified: 10/29/12, First Published: 10/29/12