Discomfort 5 years after

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1

Hello,

I had a 10mm breast lump removed in 2021 (grade 2, node negative, ER6, PR 4, Her2 negative), I took Tamoxifen for 8 months then stopped and a week of radiotherapy at the time - lately I noticed the nipple feeling itchy which stops if I rub it, now I have discomfort in the breast as if something is pressing on it, and a tender spot if I press on it. This breast is larger than my other breast and a bit lumpy but last October my breast surgeon told me I had a fibrous area ( which my GP had thought could be suspicious) and a mammo was clear. Thediscomfort has just been over the last month or so.

I feel it is unlikely a new tumour could be growing so fast to cause inner pain in the breast or do you think this could be something that needs checked urgently? I have private cover so think I could probably be seen quite quickly.

Or is it likely to be continuing changes in my breast due to the radiotherapy and age, I’m 72.

I try not to wear tight bras but as this left breast where the pain is, is bigger the bras get tighter during the day,

Any advice please,

suzyK

2

Hi @SuzyK,

Thanks for your post asking whether you should get the breast discomfort that you have felt over the last month and the nipple irritation checked out.

You mention you were told by your breast surgeon that you have a fibrous area following your treatment, and your recent mammogram showed no changes. Breast changes or discomfort can happen for different reasons, including scarring after surgery and the formation of fibrous tissue after having radiotherapy. However, we would always suggest getting any new change, such as itching to the nipple and discomfort in the breast, checked out by a doctor or your GP as soon as you can. They can assess you to decide if you might need another assessment at the breast clinic.

You also mention that despite trying to not wear a tight-fitting bra, it feels get tighter throughout the day. Do let your doctor know about this as well.

Our information on a guide to a well-fitting bra might be of some interest.

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Best wishes,

Teresa

Breast Care Nurse

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