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Wednesday, October 27, 2010 KellyLuinstra asks

Q: Very sore breast, lactation, and family history of breast cancer. Why does ONE breast hurt like crazy and possibly lactating?

I am 31. My mother (diagnosed at 44), maternal grandmother (found in autopsy), and 3 paternal cousins (diganosed at 27, 34, 38) have all had breast cancer. My dad and maternal uncle had prostate cancer, and paternal uncle had pancreatic cancer. All are survivors! I had a tubal in '08 after the birth of my daughter. I also have dysplasia. In the past 3 months, I have spontaneously begun to lactate (or at least have a milky discharge) and one spot that is VERY sore and hard, it does not move during BSE and the nipple is red instead of the color of the rest of the areola, plus it itches. It gets worse after my period, but is constant. What could it possibly be?
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Answers (1)
PJ Hamel, Health Guide
10/27/10 4:51am

Hi Kelly - Other types of family cancers don't increase your risk of breast cancer. However, you do have an increased risk due to your mom and grandmother having had it, so you need to be vigilant about any breast changes. Since this change has lasted longer than a month, you need to see a doctor. I can't tell you what's causing these symptoms; only a doctor can do that. So be proactive, and make an appointment to see someone soon, OK? It might be hormonal; it might be cancer. But whatever it is, you need to get to the root of these symptoms and have them diagnosed. Best of luck - PJH

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10/27/10 9:12pm

I have an appointment in the morning to see a doctor about it.

 

Kelly

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PJ Hamel, Health Guide
10/27/10 9:40pm

Gpod for you, Kelly, for  being proactive. Check back and let us know how things turn out, OK? Good luck - PJH

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10/28/10 5:24pm

The doctor wants to run several tests.  I have to get blood work done to see if I need to be referred to an Endocrinologist due to the lactation.  I also need to get an MRI of the brain done to see what is causing the Pituitary gland to secrete excess prolactin.  I also have to get a Mammogram done to rule out cancer due to a lump found on the left side of my breast near the lymph nodes.

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Phyllis Johnson, Health Guide
10/28/10 6:49pm

It sounds like your doctor is investigating every possibility.  I know the thought of all these tests is scary, but knowing that your doctor is taking your symptoms seriously can make you feel confident that you will find out what the problem is and get it under control.  Stay in touch as you go through the tests.  We'll want to know what you find out.

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10/28/10 10:14pm

I sure will.  Hopefully others who are experiencing the same thing will know they aren't alone in this.

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10/29/10 1:32am

your not alone has a lump in my breast too had mommagram six months ago now here is the lump,my doctor order me to go for an ultrasound on monday dont know what to expect ,wish you well.

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By KellyLuinstra— Last Modified: 12/27/10, First Published: 10/27/10