nipple lump

[justaguy8373]

I am a 34 year old white male. Since after puberty, I will occasionaly develop a lump under the left rim of my left nipple. It appears overnight, is sore, and disappears on its own after a month or so. This happens rarely - maybe every 3 or 4 years. It has not happened in the last 3 years at least, possibly over 5 years. It happened again about a month ago. It usually starts to disappear by now but is still large and sore. What is this? Is it dangerous?

[justaguy8373]

Thanks a lot

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

These painful lumps can be due to problems with the muscles and connective tissues underneath the areola which can be related to stressful activities and over use of the extremity involved.  Stress would cause inflammation that would resolve by itself usually with ample rest and time.  Another possibility is infection since the areola has sweat glands much like the any other areas of our skin.  Nevertheless, I suggest you have this looked at by your doctor so that it can be assessed properly.  He may also prescribe to you anti-inflammatory drugs to facilitate resolution of the inflammation or antibiotics if he thinks that the area has infection.  Regards.