Warning signs

Nurse instructing self examination Contact your doctor if you discover any changes in the:

shape or size of existing lumps or new lumps in your breast
shape or contour of your breasts, swelling
skin color or texture
nipple, such as dimpling, pulling, crusting, rash or discharge

If you suspect a problem

Do not panic. Most breast lumps or changes are not cancer. The most common problem is a benign breast condition called fibrocystic changes. A cyst is a small, fluid-filled cavity that can be almost any size, from a fraction of an inch to the size of a golf ball. A cyst often varies in size, depending on the menstrual cycle, and may decrease at the time of menopause. Cysts most often occur in women between ages 25 and 50.

Only your doctor can make a diagnosis. Call your doctor to find out if you should schedule an appointment. For more information, call Jane Brattain Breast Center at 952-993-3700.