Spotting a lump or a bulge on the breast is totally alarming and it can distress even the strongest of women. While the lump could be cause of concern, it is not a torment. Once the lump is spotted, it should be examined by the right medical practitioner. In most cases the lumps are benign, meaning non cancerous. Fibrocystic breast condition is one such state, where lumps appear on one or in most cases, both breasts.
The lumps are irregular masses that are not attached to any of the breast tissues. The breast feels tender, accompanied by pain and the symptoms can be less severe for some women, while a few women experience severe pain. This condition commonly affects women in the age group of 30 to 50. This condition is infrequent after menopause.
There are many types of fibrocystic breast condition. In some cases, the lumps have mild effects on the breast tissue; in others a large number of cysts along with scar tissues can be seen along with the breast tissues. In some cases, the breast cells change in appearance.
Treatments for Fibrocystic Breast Condition
Fibrocystic breast condition has many factors and the treatment is aimed at rectifying each aspect of the condition. This condition can be treated in many ways.
Hormonal Balance
This way of treatment involves the correction of hormonal irregularities. It has been noted that women with irregular periods are the ones most affected with severe forms of this condition. In such patients, menstrual cycle is regularised with low doses of oral contraceptives. These oral contraceptives reduce breast tenderness and swelling to an extent.
In most patients, the estrogen level is high. Drugs that block the effects of estrogen in the body are effectively used to treat this condition in such cases. Tamoxifen and Toremifene are largely used for this purpose. Hormonal therapy should be carried out only under the guidance of a registered practitioner.
Supplements
Vitamins
Several vitamins are found to relieve the symptoms of fibrocystic breast condition. Vitamin A and Vitamin E have shown good results in controlling this condition when taken in high doses. Moderate doses of Vitamin C and Vitamin B6 have also proven to be beneficial.
Iodine
Research has shown that a deficiency in iodine can lead to the development of cysts in the breast. 0.25mg of Iodine per day can help in relieving the symptoms.
Oil of Primrose
This supplement is rich in some essential fatty acids that benefit this condition. It can also relieve pain and other symptoms associated with this disease. The recommended dosage is 1500mg, twice a day. Other supplements that are found to be beneficial are Zinc, flaxseed and Coenzyme Q 10.
Herbs
Herbs are an effective way to treat this condition. Herbs can stimulate your immune system and help your body heal naturally. The most commonly used herbs are:
Poke Root
This herb can heal the breast tenderness and the cysts. It can also combat pain in the axillary regions of the breast.
Pure Flint
This herb is found to be effective against pain and formation of cysts. It can also heal breast soreness and the heavy feeling in the breasts.
Also Read
How To Treat Fibrocystic Breast Disease Through Diet
Know How To Treat Fibrocystic Breast Disease Naturally
Causes Of Fibrocystic Breast Disease
How To Care For Fibrocystic Breast
Knotted Figwort
This herb can relieve pain, especially pain associated with the flexor muscles of the breast. It can also deplete the nodules in the breast.
Chaste Berry
This plant can regulate the hormone levels, thus curbing the symptoms of fibrocystic breast condition. However, it should be used on a daily basis for several months to ease the symptoms.
Essential Oils
Several essential oils are very beneficial to women suffering from this condition. Sandalwood oil and Frankincense oil are most commonly used for this purpose. These oils have anti-tumour properties. Hence, they can heal the lumps and pain. Green Myrtle, lavender oil and jojoba oil are also commonly used. Green myrtle is found to be effective against the cysts.
Home remedies
Home treatments can help you balance pain and discomfort, especially if the pain is cyclic.
The Right Bra
A supportive bra or sports bra can give you enough support and prevent motion of your tender breasts. Selecting the right bra can prevent unnecessary discomfort.
Reducing Fat Intake
Reducing fat to less than 15% of your daily dietary intake may reduce breast pain. Many women have found positive results with reduction in fat intake.
Ice Compress
Ice packs or a cold compress can relieve the breasts from inflammation and tenderness. For a soothing experience, place plastic bag filled with crushed ice on the sore breasts for fifteen minutes. Alternatively ice can be placed in a plastic sheet and wrapped in a towel.
With the right approach, fibrocystic breast condition can be well managed. It is necessary to maintain a healthy diet and have regular physical examinations.
Photo Credit: http://doesbreastcancerhurt.info/large-painful-lump-in-breast.html
