Many women around the world experience breast cysts at some point in their lives. Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in the breast tissue. They are common and can be either benign or malignant.

In this article, we will discuss what breast cysts are, their symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

What are Breast Cysts?

Breast cysts are sacs filled with fluid that can develop in the breast. The sac can be any size ranging from a pea to a golf ball.

Breast cysts are common in all women, but they are more prevalent in women over 40, particularly those who have not gone through menopause yet. Breast cysts are not cancerous, but they can cause discomfort, pain, and lumpiness in the breast.

Symptoms of Breast Cysts

Breast cysts do not always show symptoms. They can develop as small lumps that cannot be felt or visible on a mammogram. However, some women may experience the following symptoms:.

Pain or discomfort in the breast
Breast lumps that can vary in size and shape
Swelling or tenderness in the breast
Changes in the texture of the breast skin
Changes in the shape or size of the breast
Nipple discharge that may be clear, yellow, or green
Breast pain that is more severe during menstruation

Causes of Breast Cysts

Doctors do not know precisely what causes breast cysts. However, researchers believe the following factors may play a role in their development:.

Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes affect the breasts and cause breast cysts. This is why cysts are more common in women during their menstrual cycle and less prevalent after menopause. Hormonal therapy like birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy can also increase the risk of cyst development.
Breast injuries: Injuries to the breast tissue like accidental trauma, blunt trauma, and surgery can cause cysts.
Aging: Breast cysts and other breast conditions become more common as women age. This is because the breast tissue becomes less dense and more susceptible to changes.
Genetic factors: Your risk of developing breast cysts may increase if there is a history of breast cysts or breast cancer in your family.

Diagnosis of Breast Cysts

Breast cysts are diagnosed through the following tests:.

Mammogram: A mammogram is an x-ray imaging test of the breast used to detect breast cysts and other abnormalities.
Ultrasound: An ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the breast tissue. Ultrasound imaging is used to see if the lump is a cyst or a solid mass.
Biopsy: A biopsy is a medical procedure used to remove a small sample of breast tissue. It is done using a needle. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for examination to determine if the lump is cancerous or benign.

Treatment of Breast Cysts

Most breast cysts do not need treatment. However, if cysts cause pain or are large, the following treatment options may be used:.

Needle aspiration: This is a procedure that involves using a small needle to drain the fluid from the cyst.
Surgery: Surgery is done when the cyst is too large to drain and causes discomfort.
Medications: Doctors may prescribe medications, including pain relievers to manage the pain associated with breast cysts.

Prevention of Breast Cysts

There is no guaranteed way to prevent the development of breast cysts. However, you can take the following measures to minimize your risk:.

Practice good breast health by performing monthly breast self-exams and attending regular mammograms.
Avoid wearing tight-fitting bras or undergarments that cause your breasts to become too compressed.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables and avoiding processed foods.
Avoid consuming caffeine and smoking.
Limit alcohol intake.