Breast lumps
If you feel a lump in your breast, you should always get it checked by a GP. Most breast lumps are harmless but some can be serious.
See a GP if you notice:
- a lump in your breast or armpit
- any other unusual changes in your breasts – such as the nipple turning inwards, dimpled skin or bloodstained nipple discharge
Changes in the breasts can be a sign of breast cancer. This is easier to treat if it's found early.
What happens at your GP appointment
The GP will look at and examine your breasts.
If they're not sure what's causing the lump, they'll refer you to a hospital or breast clinic for further tests.
These tests usually show that a lump isn't cancer.
What happens at the breast clinic
At the hospital or breast clinic, you may have a:
- breast examination
- scan – usually a breast X-ray (mammogram) or ultrasound
- biopsy – where a needle is inserted into the lump to remove some cells for testing
These tests are often done during the same visit. You'll usually be told the results on the same day, although biopsy results take longer – you should get them within a week.
Breast Cancer Care has more information about what to expect at a breast clinic appointment.
Treatment for a lump depends on the cause. Most are harmless and may go away on their own without treatment.
Causes of breast lumps
Lumps in the breasts can have lots of different causes.
Most are due to something harmless, such as a non-cancerous tissue growth (fibroadenoma) or a build-up of fluid (breast cyst).
But sometimes they can be a sign of something serious, such as breast cancer.
Don't try to self-diagnose the cause of your lump – always see a GP.