Breast Swelling

[SASHA08]

4 weeks ago I noticed my areola on my left breast was swelling.  My doctor treated me with an antibotic.  It did not help at all.  I now have a swollen nipple and the nipple and areola are very sore.  There seems to be a little puckering of the areola and the color has turned very light compared to my right breast.  Is this anything to be concerned about?

Sasha

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
You already took antibiotic but the tenderness in the nipple and areola is still there.  There should at least be some improvement of the symptom with antibiotic intake if the cause is an infection.  
I still suggest consult with your doctor for further evaluation and management.
Please do post your updates

[SASHA08]

Thanks for your reply. I am 48 years old.  I am not sure if I feel a lump, I feel something, but my breasts are very dense, so is hard to tell.  There is no nipple discharge.  But the nipple and areola have become very tender to the touch, to the point it is hard to wear a bra.  I thought if there was an infection the antibiotic Keflex would cure it.  Still not sure what to do.

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
How old are you?
Can you feel any lump in the breast?
Do you have nipple discharge?
There are a variety of conditions that can cause nipple swelling.  There can be a local infection or a deep abscess.  Paget’s disease can also initially manifest as changes in the nipple.
It would be best to go back to your doctor for reevaluation.
Good luck.