About cost concerns and fear
Finding a lump is frightening. Many people delay seeing a doctor because they fear what they might hear, or because they worry about the cost of consultations and investigations. Both concerns are understandable. A consultation fee is far less significant than the difference between an early and a late diagnosis.
Dr. Shruthi sees patients at every stage, from those who found a lump that morning to those who have been watching it for months before coming in. There is no judgement for delaying. But the sooner you are assessed, the sooner you have a clear answer.
Types of breast lumps
Most lumps are benign (not cancerous). Common causes include:
- Fibroadenoma: A smooth, firm, moveable lump. Very common in young women. Usually benign and does not become cancer.
- Breast cyst: A fluid-filled sac that can feel soft or firm. Usually benign. Can appear suddenly and may be tender.
- Fibrocystic changes: Lumpy, tender breast tissue that changes with the menstrual cycle. Not a single lump, but can feel lumpy throughout.
- Lipoma: A soft, fatty lump. Completely benign.
- Abscess or infection: A tender, warm swelling, often with redness and fever.
- Breast cancer: A firm, irregular, non-tender lump that does not move easily. May be accompanied by skin or nipple changes.
You cannot reliably tell the difference between a benign and a malignant lump by feel alone. Neither can any doctor, without investigations. The only way to know for certain is through imaging and, if needed, biopsy.
When to see a doctor urgently
- A new lump that was not there before, regardless of whether it is painful
- A lump in the armpit
- Skin changes over the lump (dimpling, redness, puckering, or orange-peel appearance)
- Nipple changes, inversion, discharge, or bleeding
- A lump that has been growing
- Any breast change that concerns you, even if you are not sure what it is
You do not need to wait until your next period has passed or until it "goes away on its own." If you notice a change, see a specialist. Getting an answer quickly is always better than worrying for weeks.
What happens at the consultation
Dr. Shruthi takes a full history, when you first noticed the lump, whether it has changed, your family history, and any other symptoms. She then examines the breast and armpit carefully.
Depending on what she finds, she may arrange an ultrasound of the breast (usually the first-line imaging) and/or a mammogram. If the lump looks suspicious on imaging, a biopsy, a small tissue sample taken with a needle under local anaesthesia, gives a definitive answer. Results are usually available within a few days.
Most patients leave the first consultation with a clear assessment and a plan for what happens next. Dr. Shruthi explains everything directly and answers all questions, she does not leave patients uncertain about what is happening.