Brown fluid from nipple

I have had brown fluid from my nipple for one year now.  I saw a doctor in LA who recomended a sonagram. I am 35 now.I never recieved the sonagram and now am very fatigued and not quite right. What are some symptoms to look for if this is cancer and if it may have spread. Please answer. thanks, Bitter

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Bitter,

The most common physical symptom of breast cancer is a painless mass.  While spontaneous nipple discharge can be associated with cancer, it can also occur in non-cancerous conditions.

American Cancer Society guidelines for screening for breast cancer are; for ages 20 - 39 a monthly self breast exam, and every 1-3 years a
breast exam by a health professional.  A Mammogram and clinical
breast exam yearly for women aged 40 and older.

Depending on risk factors these guidelines may be modified.  
Factors that may be associated with increased risk of developing
breast cancer are increasing age and a family history of breast cancer in a first degree relative (mother or sister).

It is unclear from your e-mail why you did not receive the sonogram.  If your physician recommended this procedure, it may be in your best interest to follow through.

There are other procedures that can be done to evaluate the nipple discharge but they would need to be considered within the context of a physical examination and complete personal and family history. We would recommend that you follow up with a physician.  If you are uncomfortable with your current physician you may want to consider a second opinion with a physician who specializes in breast disease.

[bitter]

thanks for the answer. I am going to a hospital here in Indianapolis. Indiana University Hospital.  I hope to get a full examination.  I didn't get a sonagram because it was expensive and I don't have insurance. Also, the brown stuff didn't really bother me till lately since I feel so tired and crummy. I hope this forum will be here for me and everyone no matter what happens to me.