Hi everyone,
I’m 41, generally fit and well, no major health issues, not on any medication. No family history of breast cancer that I know of.
For the last 3 months I’ve been getting this weird intermittent burning/stinging pain in my LEFT nipple only. It’s literally just the nipple itself – no pain in the breast tissue at all. It comes and goes, can be fine for days then suddenly a sharp burn for a few seconds or minutes. No visible cracks, redness, flakes or discharge (I’ve checked properly in the shower/with a mirror). I can’t squeeze anything out however hard I try.
Went to the GP about it a month ago. She examined both breasts/nipples, said everything looks completely normal, no lumps etc, and basically told me it’s “probably hormonal” or “maybe a nerve thing” and to come back if it gets worse or I get discharge/a lump. She didn’t refer me anywhere.
I’m not a hypochondriac (honestly, I usually ignore things!) but this has been going on long enough now that it’s starting to worry me. I know most breast cancer presents with a lump, but I’ve read about rare things like Paget’s disease of the nipple and now I’m in a bit of a Google spiral.
AIBU to go back to the GP and push for a referral to the breast clinic anyway, even though there’s nothing to see or feel? Or should I just try to ignore it? Has anyone had something similar that turned out to be nothing (or something)? I’m in England so two-week-wait referral is an option if they think it’s justified.
TIA xx