What causes lumps under the breast at the bra line. How to identify different types of breast lumps. When should you see a doctor for a lump under your breast. What are the symptoms of breast cancer to watch for.

Common Causes of Lumps Under the Breast

Discovering a lump under your breast can be unsettling, but it’s important to understand that most breast lumps are not cancerous. Lumps at the bra line can develop for many of the same reasons they form elsewhere on the breast. Some common causes include:

• Fluid accumulation under the skin
• Infections
• Extra fat cells
• Non-cancerous tumors
• Injuries or trauma to the chest area
• Irritation from ill-fitting bras or underwires

In some cases, recent surgical procedures or chest injuries can lead to hematomas – pools of blood under the skin that create a lump-like appearance. While these causes are generally benign, it’s crucial to have any new lumps examined by a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and peace of mind.

Types of Lumps That Can Form at the Bra Line

Several types of breast lumps can develop at or near the bra line. Understanding these different types can help alleviate concerns and guide you in seeking appropriate medical attention when necessary.

Breast Abscess

A breast abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to infection. Symptoms often include:

• Inflammation
• Fever
• Warm skin
• Fatigue
• Pain

Abscesses may develop following an injury to the chest and typically require treatment to drain the pus and clear the infection.

Breast Cyst

Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs and are among the most common causes of breast lumps. They may be accompanied by tenderness and can change with your menstrual cycle. Cysts usually feel soft and smooth, but when they form deep within breast tissue, they can feel hard. While they don’t always require treatment, a doctor can drain or remove them if they cause discomfort.

Fibroadenoma

Fibroadenomas are non-cancerous tumors that feel rubbery, smooth, and moveable. They are typically painless, and their cause is unclear. If a fibroadenoma causes pain, it can be surgically removed.

Lipoma

A lipoma is an overgrowth of fat cells just under the skin. These lumps can occur anywhere on the body, including the chest. Lipomas are usually soft, movable, and painless. They tend to grow slowly and don’t typically require treatment unless they cause discomfort.

Breast Cancer: A Rare but Serious Possibility

While most breast lumps are benign, it’s essential to be aware of the possibility of breast cancer. Cancerous breast tumors are most likely to occur in the upper, outer quadrant of the breast, but they can develop anywhere, including at the bra line.

Characteristics of cancerous lumps often include:

• Hard consistency
• Immobility
• Irregular shape
• Painless (in most cases)

It’s important to note that breast lumps are often the first sign of breast cancer. However, a 2019 study found that 75 percent of breast biopsies come back with benign results, meaning most lumps are not cancerous. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, with the 5-year relative survival rate for localized female breast cancer at 99 percent, according to the National Cancer Institute.

Costochondritis and Tietze Syndrome: Inflammation Near the Breastbone

Sometimes, what feels like a lump under the breast may actually be inflammation of the costochondral joint, the area where the ribs connect to the breastbone. Two conditions that can cause this are costochondritis and Tietze syndrome.

These conditions can cause:

• Visible swelling
• Pain, especially when moving or applying pressure
• Tenderness in the chest area

Causes of costochondritis and Tietze syndrome may include:

1. Chest strain due to severe coughing
2. Physical activity-related chest strain
3. Injury to the chest
4. Infection

Treatment typically involves rest and pain management medications. While these conditions can be uncomfortable, they are generally not serious and often resolve on their own.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Breast Lump

While many breast lumps are harmless, it’s always advisable to have new lumps examined by a healthcare professional. Certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Contact a doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of the following:

• The lump is painful
• The lump or surrounding area is red or hot
• You have a fever
• You notice skin puckering, nipple discharge, or an inverted nipple
• The lump is hard and immovable
• The lump is changing or growing
• You experience chest pain

These symptoms don’t necessarily indicate cancer, but they require prompt evaluation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Steps to Take When You Find a Breast Lump

Discovering a breast lump can be anxiety-inducing, but it’s important to remain calm and take appropriate action. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Take a deep breath and try to relax. Remember that most breast lumps are not cancerous.
2. Examine your bra. Check if it’s putting too much pressure under your breast. If you wear underwire bras, consider switching to a different type.
3. Perform a self-examination. Note the size, shape, and texture of the lump.
4. Keep track of any changes. Monitor the lump for any growth or changes in appearance.
5. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough examination and recommend further testing if necessary.

By following these steps, you can take proactive measures to address any concerns about breast lumps and ensure timely medical attention if needed.

Diagnostic Procedures for Breast Lumps

When you visit your healthcare provider about a breast lump, they may recommend various diagnostic procedures to determine the nature of the lump. These may include:

Clinical Breast Examination

Your doctor will physically examine your breasts, checking for any abnormalities or changes in texture, size, or shape.

Mammogram

This is an X-ray of the breast tissue that can detect abnormalities too small to feel during a physical exam.

Ultrasound

This imaging technique uses sound waves to create a picture of the breast tissue, helping to distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts.

Biopsy

If a lump appears suspicious, your doctor may recommend a biopsy. This involves removing a small sample of tissue for laboratory analysis to determine if cancer cells are present.

These diagnostic tools help healthcare providers make accurate diagnoses and recommend appropriate treatment plans for breast lumps.