Experiencing breast pain can be concerning, but it often has a simple explanation. Pain in breast tissue can range from mild soreness and tenderness to a sharp pain or shooting pain that comes and goes. "Because breast discomfort can have many different causes, it is not always easy to know when to wait it out and when to seek medical care," says Arielle C. Dubose, MD, FACS, FASCRS, General Surgery at ARC Medical Plaza Specialty and ARC Greenlawn Specialty. "Understanding the warning signs can help you decide when it is time to make an appointment."
What are the common causes of breast pain?
Many times, breast pain is related to changes in hormones. Some people notice more discomfort around ovulation or before their period. The breasts may feel swollen, heavy, or more sensitive during these times.
Other common causes include:
- An injury to the chest or breast
- A non-cancerous condition, such as breast cysts or fibrocystic changes
- An infection in the breast
- Lumps or a mass that needs evaluation
- Muscle strain that causes pain under breast tissue
Depending on the cause, treatment may include medications, supportive garments, lifestyle changes, or other measures that provide relief.
Know the warning signs that should not be ignored
Most breast pain improves on its own, but some warning signs mean it is time to see a doctor. Seek medical care if you have:
- New or persistent breast pain
- A new mass or unusual lumps
- Swelling in one breast
- Skin redness or warmth
- Nipple drainage, especially if it is bloody
- Changes in the shape or appearance of the breast
Although breast cancer does not usually cause pain, it can sometimes be associated with these symptoms. Your doctor may recommend imaging tests, including a mammogram, as part of a cancer screening evaluation.
"When a concerning breast issue is identified, our goal is to find the cause and help patients understand what comes next," says Dr. DuBose. "Additional testing or procedures may be needed, but an early evaluation often brings both answers and reassurance. As general surgeons, our job is to guide patients through every stage of the process, from assessment and diagnosis to treatment."
About ARC General Surgery
ARC General Surgery provides expert, board-certified care for a wide range of conditions and procedures. ARC General Surgeons have specialized knowledge and experience related to diagnosis, pre-operative, operative, and post-operative management, combined with a patient-centered philosophy of coordinated care. At ARC, we provide the most up-to-date surgical and treatment options available.
ARC General Surgeons perform major and minor surgical procedures at a number of locations, including outpatient surgery centers and area hospitals.
Book an appointment today
Dr. DuBose is accepting new patients, ages 18 and older, at ARC Medical Plaza Specialty in Cedar Park and ARC Greenlawn Specialty in Round Rock. To make an appointment, use ARC MyChart or call 512-272-4636 (512-ARC-INFO) and choose option "1".