treating breast pain

[gradysmom]

Just curious. Have recently experienced intense breast pain (see preceding question for more info) and been diagnosed with fibrocystic disease. Was told by doctor to start vitamin E and a friend suggested evening primrose oil and castor oil packs. Has anyone else tried this and if so was it successful? Am nervous about taking to many OTC supplements. Thanks!

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear gradysmom:  To date, there is little scientific research to support the use of these supplements. However, some anectdotal stories have reported success.  The biggest contributor to cystic disease is caffiene.

[surgeon]

the standard recommendation for the pain associated with fibrocystic breasts is taking vitamin E, eliminating caffeine and related foods, wearing the most supportive bra you can find. Castor oil packs is a new one to me: do you mean placed on the breast? Doubt it would do anything. Evening primrose may have vitamin E, in which case it's more of the same. For some women, taking elemental iodine can help also: the easist way is to get kelp pills from a healthfood store.