Pain on side of Left Breast

[Deni_b]

Hi, I have had pain on the side of my left breast for a few weeks now.  My chiropractor has told me pain in the breast can radiate from the back.  The pain is under my arm as well.  I went to see my GP and she gave me a thorough breast exam.  All looked OK and she was not worried but did say that she felt thickening on the side where I have the breast pain.  She didnt think there was anything to worry about, but has sent me for a Mammogram just to check things out.  I am 40 and have no history of breast cancer in the family.  Needless to say, I am a bit worried.  Do you think I have anything to worry about?

[brenia]

A mamogram revealed a nodule in my left breast. Should I be worried?

[ksoto63]

A fibrodenoma is a non cancerous tumor. I had one removed from each breast in 2003. Nothing to worry about. Recovery time is speedy.

[Deni_b]

Hi.  Thanks for replying.  I am now, however, officially freaking out.  I had a mammography and ultrasound conducted today.  The radiographer called in the Dr to further evaluate a "nodule" which she thought was probably a "fatty nodule" or a fibroadenoma.  The Dr carefully examined and seemed to think that it was a fibroadenoma.  I have an appointment with my GP as they recommend follow up.  My question is, would they tell me not to worry, that it could just be a fibroadenoma if it wasnt?  I am, needless to say, having a big "freak out"!!

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Deni_b:  Without evaluation, it is impossible for us to speculate on the nature of the "thickening."  However, the general rule of thumb is that if there is a "lump" that can be felt further evaluation is required.  A mammogram may help the doctor to determine if this is just your anatomy or whether additional investigation is necessary.  Most breast cancer is not painful.