Fibroid Breast Tumors

What are fibroid tumors? Fibroid tumors are solid growths composed of fibrous tissue, most commonly found in the uterus or breasts of women, known as uterine tumors or fibroid breast tumors respectively. Both breast and uterine tumors are fairly common in menstruating women, and are usually benign. Fibroids can vary greatly in size, some small enough to need a microscope to view them while others can weigh several pounds. Fibroid tumors in breast occur in more than 30% of women of childbearing age, and are generally not much of a serious cause for concern. However, should you belong to a high risk group, parameters for which are described below, it's important to ensure that you keep a lookout for the development of fibroid tumor symptoms. Listed below are the causes, symptoms and treatment of this medical condition.

Fibroid Tumors in Breast - Causes
The exact cause of fibroid breast tumors is not known, but there are some criteria that influence their occurrence. These are as follows:

    * They do not occur before the body begins the production of estrogen, at the onset of menstruation during puberty.
    * Fibroid breast tumors are prone to very quick growth in pregnant women, in whom estrogen levels are high.
    * Hormone imbalance and changes that lead to differences in levels of the female hormones of progesterone and estrogen are primarily believed to be responsible for the development of fibroid tumor symptoms.
    * The chances of these tumors developing in menopausal women is very low.

Fibroid Tumors in Breast - Symptoms
Since monthly changes in hormonal levels are linked with the development of fibroid tumors, the likelihood of the symptoms being pronounced or aggravated near the beginning of your period is high. Chances are the symptoms will die down immediately after. Typical fibroid tumor symptoms may include the following:

    * Irregular shaped lumps or ridges, that appear in the breast, which seem rubbery or movable.
    * A feeling of heaviness or fullness in the breast/s
    * Extreme breast soreness, tenderness or swelling
    * Dull or severe pain, which may be intermittent or persistent
    * Itchiness around the nipple, or a general feeling of discomfort
    * Increased breast sensitivity

Fibroid Tumors in Breast - Treatment
Fibroid tumors treatment begins with a diagnosis of the lump, which could be carried out by physical examination or a special kind of ultrasound. In most cases, your gynecologist will be able to diagnose the lump through a physical exam, this may be followed by a biopsy to rule out cancer. Once you have been diagnosed with fibroid breast tumors, the following courses of treatment are likely to be your options:

    * Medication to provide relief from discomfort and pain can help ease the symptoms - anti inflammatory medication and acetaminophen have been found helpful. In certain women, vitamin supplements may also be prescribed to combat discomfort and breast pain.
    * Fibroid breast tumors seem to be more common in women who experience irregular menstrual cycles - oral contraceptives may be useful in regularizing periods and thereby hormone levels.
    * Dietary changes may be suggested, to include vitamin and nutrient rich foods, and help in the maintenance of a healthy weight range. In addition, some women may benefit from cutting down on caffeine and alcohol.
    * Wearing a good bra is also important for proper support. Some women may also benefit by wearing a bra to sleep in, to cut down on pain and discomfort
    * Should all the above fail to provide a significant improvement, surgical removal of the fibroid may be considered.

High Risk Groups
Research has indicated the incidence of fibroid breast tumors may be increased in women of African descent. Fibroid tumors and breast cancer have been linked - the occurrence of fibroid breast tumors puts you at a higher risk for the development of breast cancer. This is most likely because fibroid cells do not respond normally to the stimuli that control cell division, which can at times indicate a genetic disorder - this may give rise to cancer. Women in their twenties and thirties, with a family history of breast cancer are also at an increased risk.

With awareness now spreading, it's more important than ever to perform a self examination every month, to detect symptoms of fibroid tumors early on. Should you discover any significant changes in the form of lumps or tissue in the breast area, it's safest to get yourself to a doctor, who will guide you towards a proper system of treatment. Although fibroid breast tumors may not pose a significant threat or risk, it's best to seek the advice of a trained professional. Should you be part of a high risk group, educate yourself about what symptoms to look out for, and take warning signs seriously. Follow a healthy lifestyle, eat well, and exercise regularly. Good luck!