Nipple Problem

This has very happened to me before my left nipple was alittle itchy for like maybe 5 mins i didn't think anything of it, them it got really tender, my nipple got hard and swollen like and a very little bit of clear discharge came from like the sides of the nipple, now my right one is kind of acting the same way. What is going on? can anyone get my advice?

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

These itching symptoms can be a sign of several things.  One possibility is that of a fungal infection that can cause severe itching and scaling of the skin and nipple area.  Another cause would include bacterial infections which can present with itchiness, swelling, and nipple discharge.  Some women with excessive hormonal stimulation can also present this way and usually coincides with the person's menstrual cycle.  Breast and nipple swelling can be maximal just before a woman menstruate, then gradually wanes.  A rare occurrence is called Paget's disease of the breast which can be diagnosed through a biopsy procedure.  Paget's disease present with eczema like lesion on the nipple area with associated breast discharge.  I suggest you have this looked at by your doctor so that you can be properly treated.  Regards and God bless.