Nipple Discharge

Nipple Discharge Treatment in Men

Nipple discharge can have severe medical and social complications for men. The treatment usually involves consultation with a senior doctor and identifying the underlying causes behind the discharge.

Once the condition is identified, the treatment is administered accordingly. Some treatments are

• Antibiotics for underlying breast tissue infection
• Hormonal therapy in case of testosterone deficiency.
• Chemotherapy and surgery for cancer.

Nipple discharge in women

Nipple discharge in females is relatively common. It could be due to reasons that might not indicate any serious problems. Nipple discharge during pregnancy and after breastfeeding periods is a normal bodily function. But there are several cases where the nipple discharge can indicate a severe problems.

Nipple Discharge Causes in Women

Given below are a list of several common and uncommon causes of nipple discharge in women

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  Nipple Discharge Treatment in Women

The normal nipple discharge after pregnancy or breastfeeding gets resolved on its own in most cases. But in cases where it is persistent with other symptoms, consulting a doctor should be the priority.

A thorough diagnosis can better understand the causes behind the nipple discharge. Some of the common treatments are:

• Stopping the birth control pills or medications that are causing the discharge
• Infection treatment with antibiotic
• Cancer treatment
• Surgery for lum removal
• Hormonal therapy to treat hormone imbalances
• Removal of the infected or inflamed milk duct.

Diagnosis of nipple discharge

You should see a doctor if nipple discharge persists for more than one menstrual cycle or if any of the warning signs are present. Unless there are signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, and pus discharge, there is not much reason to worry but visit the doctor to be sure.

Your doctor will begin by questioning about the symptoms and medical history. The doctor then performs a physical examination that points to the cause of the discharge and the tests that may be required. Doctors ask about the discharge and other symptoms that may indicate a possible cause to help identify the cause.

Normal and abnormal nipple discharge

Normal nipple discharge occurs from both nipples, usually when they are squeezed or compressed. Some of its causes might be: –

• Pregnancy- clear discharge might be seen from the nipples during the early stages of pregnancy. Later this discharge becomes milkier.
• When breastfeeding is stopped or the weaning stage- even after a mother stops breastfeeding her child, milk-like discharge may be seen for a while.
• Stimulation- normal nipple discharge may take place under conditions such as stimulation, compression, etc. It can also occur during vigorous exercise or by wearing an uncomfortably tight bra.

Abnormal nipple discharge is usually from one breast and is spontaneous. It Does not require stimulation or compression., It cannot be determined whether the discharge is normal or abnormal by its color. However,a bloody nipple discharge is not normal.

Some of the causes of an abnormal nipple discharge may be: –

• Fibrocystic breast changes- the presence of fibrous tissue and a cyst is known as fibrocystic. Thickening or lumps may be seen in the breast tissue which is always not indicative of cancer. These fibrocystic changes not only cause pain but are also responsible for clear or colored nipple discharge.
• Galactorrhea- This is a milky discharge when the woman is not breastfeeding. This may be present due to tumors, certain medications, drugs, hormonal changes, etc.
• Infection- In the presence of an abscess or infection in the breast, the breast is warm, red, and sore. Pus discharge takes place. This is also known as mastitis. It can occur in both lactating as well as non-lactating women.
• Mammary duct ectasia- the nipples might appear greenish and thick. This occurs due to inflammation and a possible blockage of the ducts located under the nipples. It is the second most common cause of the abnormal discharge and is seen mostly in women who are nearing menopause.
• Intraductal papilloma- In this case, the discharge contains blood and is sticky. Noncancerous growth of the ducts of the mammary glands take place resulting in inflammation. This is the most frequent cause of abnormal nipple discharge.
• Carcinoma – papillary carcinimas orany carcinoma near the nipple area.
• Hormonal disorders- Hypothyroidism, prolactinemia, pituitary adenoma

Evaluation of nipple discharge

Evaluation starts with ascertaining whether the nipple discharge is pathologic or physiologic. If the discharge contains blood, is spontaneous, and is associated with a mass, then it is pathologic. They are mostly confined to one duct. Physiologic discharge, on the other hand, involves many ducts & may be both sides. The fluid, in either case, might be clear, white, or greenish.

Physiologic discharge is often self limiting when irritation of the nipple is avoided, as it usually takes place due to stimulation. Intraductal papilloma and duct ectasia are most commonly causes of pathologic nipple discharge which may also lead to cancer. A mammogram is more useful than cytology. A magnified view of the retro areolar region helps identify its pathology. Surgical evaluation should be referred to all patients irrespective of the discharge type.

Pathologic nipple discharges needs treatment unlike galactorrhea as they are not indicative of breast cancer or primary breast pathology. It may be due to the use of oral contraceptives, hormonal disbalance, or trauma in the chest walls. Hence, in the case of galactorrhea, surgical duct excision is not recommended.

When to see a doctor

• A lump is present in the breast
• When nipple discharge lasts for more than four weeks outside of pregnancy and lactation, a doctor should be consulted within a week in such a case.
• The color of the nipple or skin is changing
• You experience breast pain
• Blood is present in the discharge
• Discharge is spontaneous, from only one breast

A doctor should also be consulted when the nipple discharge does not resolve The doctor will ask you to go through certain tests to diagnose the discharge. Some of these tests may include: –

• Laboratory analysis of the discharge
• Blood tests
• Mammogram or/and ultrasound of one or both breasts
• MRI of breast
• A brain scan
• May need a biopsy

Some of the following tests will be required to be done: –

• Biopsy- It is a test where a small sample of tissue from the suspected area will be sent to the laboratory for study.
• Ductogram- The images of the milk ducts inside the mammary glands are taken using mammography and a contrast medium that is injected.
• Ultrasound- Sound waves are used to create images inside the patient’s breast.

Treatment

The treatment of nipple discharge depends on the type of discharge. Once it is evaluated, the doctor decides on a suitable method to treat it. Some of the treatments for treating non-cancerous discharges are: –

• If the discharge has been caused by a certain medication, an alternative medication is suggested.
• Removal of the lumps
• Removal of all or certain parts of the ducts
• Use of medicated creams
• Antibiotics

If the diagnosis points towards cancer, then the treatment is done accordingly.

How to Prepare before nipple discharge?

• Take careful note of all your symptoms, even if they appear unrelated to the reason for your appointment.
• Examine critical personal information, such as major life stresses or recent life changes.
• Make a list of all of your medications, vitamins, and supplements.
• Make a list of questions to ask, highlighting the ones that are most important to you.
• Avoid breast stimulation to reduce or eliminate nipple discharge. Avoid stimulating the nipples and wear clothing that creates a lot of friction on your nipples.
• Breast pads absorb and prevent nipple discharge from penetrating your clothing.

What to expect from a doctor during nipple discharge?

Your doctor will make an evaluation based on:

• Whether the discharge originates in one or both breasts
• What color is the discharge?
• How long has it lasted?
• Whether it happens on its own or only when the nipple is stimulated
• Women are also asked if they have had disorders or take drugs that can increase prolactin levels, as well as whether they have a lump or breast pain.

If the discharge does not occur spontaneously, the area around the nipples is gently pressed to induce one. You will be checked for enlarged lymph nodes in the armpits and above the collarbone.

Blood tests to measure prolactin and thyroid-stimulating hormone levels are performed if doctors suspect a hormonal disorder is the cause. Ultrasound, mammography, and other tests may be required at times.

Conclusion

Both men and women should see a doctor if they suspect abnormal nipple discharge. Infection or breast cancer diagnosed and treated at an early stage have better outcomes.

FAQ

Q. Is it normal for nipple discharge to come?

Nipple discharge can be a common occurrence and is not always a cause for concern. Many factors, including hormonal changes, medications, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, can lead to nipple discharge. However, if the discharge is persistent, spontaneous, or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

Q. Is it good to squeeze out nipple discharge?

Squeezing out nipple discharge is not recommended, as it may lead to potential complications. Manipulating the breasts can introduce bacteria, cause inflammation, or even worsen an underlying issue. If you notice nipple discharge, it’s advisable to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform necessary tests to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment if needed.

Q. What are the three types of nipple discharge?

Nipple discharge can vary in color, consistency, and cause. The three main types of nipple discharge are:

Clear Discharge– Clear or watery discharge is often associated with hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It can also be a normal response to nipple stimulation.

Milky Discharge– Milky discharge, similar to breast milk, can occur during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in individuals using certain medications. If milky discharge occurs outside these contexts, it may warrant further investigation.

Bloody or Discolored Discharge– Bloody or discolored nipple discharge should be evaluated promptly, as it may indicate an underlying issue such as infection, injury, or, in some cases, breast cancer. Any unexplained or persistent blood-tinged discharge requires medical attention for proper diagnosis and management.

It’s crucial to note that nipple discharge can be benign, but any concerns should be addressed with a healthcare professional for appropriate assessment and guidance based on individual circumstances.