Is hyperplasia of the mammary glands serious?

Written by Fan Hong Qiao
Breast Health Department
Updated on September 27, 2024
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Overall, breast hyperplasia is a benign disease and not severe, so there is no need for excessive anxiety. However, it should definitely not be taken lightly. Studies have found that about 2% to 3% of cases with breast hyperplasia may develop into cancer, and the rate of malignant transformation in cystic breast hyperplasia is 3 to 5 times higher than in other women. If you do not control factors that cause breast hyperplasia, such as endocrine disorders, high-fat diets, smoking, drinking, hypertension, and diabetes, then the breast ducts and epithelia being chronically stimulated by these factors could potentially become cancerous. The progression from breast hyperplasia to breast cancer is a lengthy process, undergoing four stages: hyperplasia → atypical hyperplasia (precancerous) → in situ carcinoma → invasive carcinoma. Therefore, breast hyperplasia should be taken very seriously, with efforts made for early examination, early detection, and early treatment. This is especially important for those with a family history of breast cancer or who belong to families with a high incidence of cancer.

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Breast Surgery
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Unilateral breast hyperplasia symptoms

The symptoms of unilateral breast hyperplasia manifest as cyclical swelling and pain in the breast, often occurring or worsening before menstruation and subsiding or disappearing after menstruation. Mild cases may not receive much attention from the patient, but severe cases can affect work and daily life. However, patients generally do not exhibit obvious cyclical changes. Some may experience swelling and pain in one or both breasts, similar to being pricked by needles, and this pain can extend to the shoulder, upper limbs, and chest-back area. A few patients may have nipple discharge, with the discharge being yellow-green, brown, or bloody. During physical examination, nodular lumps of varying sizes, which are firm but not hard, can sometimes be felt in one or both breasts. These lumps, which move slightly upon touch, have indistinct boundaries with the surrounding breast tissue but are not adherent to the skin or chest muscles. Sometimes the condition presents as an area of indistinct thickening.

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Breast hyperplasia is related to what?

Breast hyperplasia is currently believed to be related to endocrine disorder, leading to increased levels of estrogen, as well as external living and working conditions, interpersonal relationships, and various other stresses. These factors can cause breast hyperplasia. During the menstrual cycle, the breast is affected by changes in endocrine levels, experiencing cyclical changes. Hormonal imbalances, characterized by high levels of estrogen and reduced secretion of progesterone, can lead to incomplete recovery after breast hyperplasia, thereby causing the condition. Mainly, controlling emotions is essential. The primary symptoms are cyclical swelling and pain in the breasts.

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Good methods for mammary gland hyperplasia

According to different pathological types, clinically, there are two types of breast hyperplasia: simple breast hyperplasia and cystic breast hyperplasia, each requiring different treatment methods. Starting with simple breast hyperplasia: for diagnosed patients who do not exhibit symptoms such as pain, medicinal treatment might not be necessary. Maintaining a regular lifestyle, staying relaxed, consuming less fatty food, and drinking fewer caffeine-containing beverages are all beneficial. If the pain affects normal life and work, severe cases might consider using estrogen blockers to alleviate the pain. Surgery is generally not recommended unless the hyperplastic lump cannot be ruled out as malignant. So, how is cystic breast hyperplasia treated? For patients with small cysts and mild symptoms, no surgery is needed, and treatment might involve the use of anti-estrogenic drugs for endocrine therapy. If the cyst is large, causes compressive symptoms, or if an ultrasound suggests thickening of the cyst wall, rich blood supply, or the presence of a tumor attached to the cyst wall, or if the patient is highly stressed about the risk of cancer, surgical treatment might be considered.

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Breast Surgery
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What should I do if I have breast hyperplasia pain?

Breast hyperplasia is caused by hormonal imbalances within the body. Mild hyperplasia can be managed by regulating mental efforts and relieving stress. For more severe cases, traditional Chinese medicine and herbs are used for treatment. The primary approach is psychological therapy, mainly aimed at relieving stress, reducing life pressures, eliminating worries, creating a pleasant mood, and fostering a peaceful mindset, which can alleviate symptoms. The second approach involves traditional Chinese medicine and herbs, using those that activate blood circulation, regulate Qi, relieve liver congestion, soften and disperse lumps. Additionally, hormone-based medications can also be used for treatment.

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How to cure breast hyperplasia?

Breast hyperplasia currently does not have specific treatment methods. For those with mild symptoms and minor lesions, treatment is often not needed, but regular follow-up is necessary. For those with significant symptoms, medication and symptomatic treatment can be given. First, a bra can be used to support the breasts. Second, Chinese herbal medicine can be used, employing methods to soothe the liver and regulate qi to alleviate pain. Third, endocrine treatment can be used, but it has significant side effects. Fourth, vitamins can be used for supportive treatment in managing breast hyperplasia.