Multiple breast cysts, worrying lump

[Strongstuff]

Feeling a bit of a wally for not checking more often, but I am very cyst ridden, 9 on one side and 7 on the other at the last count. Had 3 checked out previously, one syringed, but nothing of concern. A couple have come and gone, but I've had so many other health and caring responsibilities for other family members, checking has taken a back seat 😕

Finally got around to have a check, and I've got slight thickening and quite a lump, right on the very edge of one breast, almost more on my sternum than in my breast. Not sure what I'm asking really, but has anyone else with multiple cysts had anything similar? Obviously I'm going to make an appt first thing Monday, but am wondering how others manage with so many to keep track of. Wish I'd just get a regular check up or mammogram to be honest as I feel at risk of missing something.

Try not to worry, I was in a similar position and everything turned out to be benign. I had an emergency ultrasound and mammogram when a few bumps appeared and the consultant advised that lumps can crop up at certain times during your cycle then disappear. Most turn out to be nothing of note and of those that are worth further investigation, most are completely treatable. It was very reassuring. Go and have them checked out now, mostly to put your mind at ease quickly :)

Thank you @YoureNotsuchaSillyGoose and yes, I will get checked out quickly. I'm just battling with guilt and anxiety around how often to check 🤦‍♀️ I reckon if I checked every month, I'd probably be asking to be checked out every month, but equally know they're likely okay and just benign. But thank you for the timely reminder they can do so much more for breast cancer these days, I often forget that!

Don’t guilt yourself, we can’t prioritize everything about our health all the time and it sounds like you have a lot going on. It was the first time I was checked - ever! My (unsolicited) advise is to find a consultant who is well reviewed and kind - ask him/ her all the questions you need when you’re in there. I found the whole experience really educational and it’s stopped me worrying a lot, and I tend to have a lot of health anxiety. Being informed really chops a lot of the “what ifs” away. Like I said, I was told breasts do get lumpy from time to time - I had multiple cysts myself- and even if it ends up being something of note the treatability of those sorts of diagnosis are really excellent. Wishing you all the best - you’ll be fine I promise! Don’t let your mind play you :)

I also produce a lot of cysts & probably don’t check as often as I should.

I have had a lump like that appear a couple of times; both times they were checked quickly and anything sinister ruled out. One was a clump of ‘granulation’ that was removed using a biopsy needle & the second dissipated on its own.

My consultant says to note the cysts, they usually clear on their own but if they stay, solidify or there’s any discomfort to get them checked.

Good luck for Monday, let us know how you get on xx

I understand completely. I had a very thorough session a few years back, with a cheery nurse confirming my breasts were like Swiss cheese, errr, thanks!

I have had cysts literally visible on the surface. Also very dense boob tissue. Very solid. But I did find they came and went, and I got used to the more stubborn ones. I still go for my three yearly mammograms. As I have got older, the cysts seem to have diminished along with the firmness of the boobs. So, it does get better.

Thanks all, really appreciate the support. And yes, I had the Swiss cheese analogy too!! Good to hear yours have diminished @HostaCentral . Between my boobs and my gynae issues I've had enough exams to last me a lifetime!

Gah, updating as the last one turned out to be nothing thank goodness. I've just found another really quite large one, largest yet - between 50p and ping pong ball size! It's painful and feels fluidy to me, do I watch and wait or get it checked 😩

I've got absolute decision fatigue right now!

Assuming you had a full assessment at your last appointment which was only month ago, I would just keep a watching eye. If it goes down, which it might, hormones etc, great. If you are still concerned in the New Year get it checked again.

I’d get it checked tbh. What’s the harm in getting it looked at? It very very very likely won’t be anything but all it is is an hour of your time. I have caring stuff going on too and I totally get letting things go and getting check up fatigue but you count too. Don’t feel guilty about not checking either, give yourself a break;) just let the dr check it instead.
I ‘ve had primary BCs twice so maybe the not most objective person to be answering you, but you’re better safe than sorry x