Fibrocystic Breasts

Treatment

What causes fibrocystic breast changes is not understood. Some studies have linked diets high in caffeine, cola, or chocolate with increased risk of pain associated with fibrocystic breasts.

Although some breast lumps are cancerous, most — 80 to 85 percent — are benign. In addition to fluid-filled cysts, fibroadenomas (benign tumors), infections, and injuries are other common causes of breast lumps.

Breast pain that is not associated with the menstrual cycle is called noncyclical breast pain. It can occur at any time and at any age and is usually associated with injuries, such as thoracic radiculopathy (an injury to the nerves near the breast) and costochondritis (an inflammation of the breastbone), as well as with medications such as hormone replacement therapy and diet.

Nearly 85 percent of all women with breast pain respond to nonmedical treatment. Others may need medication. Treatment includes:

• Avoiding caffeine, cola, and chocolate and making other dietary changes
• Taking a supplement containing 3,000 mg of evening primrose oil and 200 to 400 units of vitamin E each day
• Using over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminofen or aspirin
• Taking prescription medications, such as bromocriptine or danazol
• Using oral contraceptives or, if already taking them, adjusting the dose
• Stopping or reducing hormone therapy for postmenopausal women
• Reducing dietary salt, especially one to two weeks prior to the period
• Wearing a bra that gives good support, especially if exercising or breasts are large
• Applying heat with a heating pad or warm water bottle