Fibrocystic breast disease affects almost 60% of all women, with a relatively high prevalence within the 30 to 50 year age group. Fibrocystic breast disease refers to a condition which is associated with formation of lump in the breast tissues which are usually benign and non-cancerous lesions.
In general the fibrocystic breast disease affects the glandular tissue of the breast. The primary function of glandular tissue is secreting milk, while this tissue is supported by fatty and other support tissue. Occasionally fibrocystic breast disease may be associated in combination with other female disorders like polycystic ovarian disease, dysmenorrhea, etc.
Causes Of Fibrocystic Breast Disease
The most important factor which contributes to the manifestation of the symptoms of fibrocystic breast disease is the hormonal variation that occurs in a female during her monthly cycles. Alteration in the levels of estrogen and progesterone are known to trigger symptoms of fibrocystic breast condition.
There are a host of other hormones which include prolactin, insulin, growth hormone and thyroid which also contribute towards manifestation of fibrocystic breast disease symptoms. Most of these hormones trigger the glandular tissue and prepare them for the production of milk, in case of pregnancy. This in turn results in increase blood circulation and increased cellular metabolism in the breast which in turn results in fluid retention and fullness in the breast. This fullness in the breast is usually responsible for the discomfort in one or both of the breast tissues.
Fibrocystic Breast Disease Symptoms
The symptoms found in association with fibrocystic breast disease include the following,
- Sensation of heaviness and lumpiness in the breast, especially a few days prior to the onset of the menstrual periods. The fullness may continue through the periods and resolve as the uterine bleeding stops.
- Some patients may complain of pain and tenderness around the lumps in the breast tissue. Formation of lumps in the breast may also be observed.
- Other associated symptoms include irritability, loss of appetite, reduced sleep and generalized weakness and fatigue.
In some cases, fibrocystic breast disease may be a part of a larger syndrome complex which may be associated with painful periods or dysmenorrhea.
Treatment Of Fibrocystic Breast Disease
Here are some useful tips on how to prevent the symptoms found in association with fibrocystic breast disease,
- There is evidence that vitamin therapy may work to alleviate some of the symptoms of fibrocystic breast disease. Vitamin C, E, A and vitamin B6 are considered to be very useful vitamins. While there are no specific reports available, use of these vitamins is known to be highly beneficial.
- Primrose oil is also useful in treatment of fibrocystic breast disease symptoms. Primrose oil contains fatty acids which help reduce pain and help resolve the lumpy formations within the breast.
- Homeopathic drugs like Pulsatilla and Sepia have a profound influence of the female reproductive system and can prove of significant use for the treatment of fibrocystic breast disease symptoms.
It is important to treat fibrocystic breast disease promptly, since this is associated with high risk of infection, especially due to accumulation of fluids, resulting in the infections. While oral antibiotics can help the lumps to subside, home remedies like turmeric and raw honey are considered to be very useful. If home remedies don’t help, consult your gynecologist at the earliest.