Nipple discharge can be seen in several ways. After birth, milk may not come from the breast. Fluid coming from the nipple is called nipple discharge. Milk ducts open at multiple points on the nipple. Nipple discharge can come from one or more openings. Additionally, it may come from one or both breasts.
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What is Nipple Discharge?
Nipple discharge can occur after birth but can also be seen in women who have never given birth or are not pregnant. This discharge can occur due to various reasons. This discharge can be a sign of a serious disease such as breast cancer. To make a diagnosis, the person's age and overall health should be considered. It is also important to observe when and how the discharge occurs, as well as its color.
What Causes Water to Come from the Breast?
Water coming from the breast may be nipple discharge. It can occur due to the widening of the milk ducts, fibrocystic problems, or traumatic events in the breast. It can also occur due to cracked nipples or infection. If the discharge is coming from only one breast, it should be taken seriously as it could indicate breast cancer. However, if it is coming from both breasts, it may indicate a systemic problem.
What is the Color of Nipple Discharge?
The color of nipple discharge varies depending on the cause. Depending on the condition, the discharge can be milk-colored, bloody, yellow, green, dark green, black, dark brown, or clear like water. The consistency of the discharge also varies. Some discharges are thicker, while others may be more watery.
How is Nipple Discharge Treated?
Treatment for nipple discharge involves undergoing certain tests first. Mammography, ultrasound, and MRI are insufficient to make a definitive diagnosis. DUCTOSCOPY is a microendoscopic method that allows direct visualization of the inside of the milk ducts. Although the milk ducts are very thin, they can be visualized. If nipple discharge is diagnosed, the milk duct is removed for treatment due to the risk of cancer.
What Causes Nipple Discharge?
Nipple discharge can be hormonal or psychological. It can also be an important sign of breast cancer. If discharge occurs from only one breast, it is essential to visit a doctor. This way, breast cancer can be diagnosed earlier. However, nipple discharge does not occur solely because of breast cancer. If it is due to a hormonal imbalance, medications are used to treat it. If the issue is psychological, it can be addressed with the help of a psychiatrist.
Can Nipple Discharge Be Caused by Cancer?
Nipple discharge that comes from only one side, is bloody, accompanied by a lump felt on breast examination, or comes out spontaneously without squeezing the breast, is highly likely to be due to breast cancer. If the patient is male, this is not a normal situation and medical attention is necessary. In women, this situation is considered normal, but a visit to the doctor and diagnostic tests are still recommended. Nipple discharge can also be caused by benign tumoral formations.
At What Age Does Nipple Discharge Occur?
Nipple discharge is more commonly seen in older women. However, it is quite common in younger women who have given birth. If a woman is both older and has given birth, the likelihood of nipple discharge increases. In this case, a manual breast examination should be performed immediately. If a lump is felt, a doctor should be consulted right away. If the discharge persists and recurs, a visit to the doctor is necessary. Nipple discharge is a condition that can occur in any woman, but it is beneficial to consider all possibilities and take appropriate action.
