Which doctor to start with for pain?

Blinx

I haven't been on here for years, but now I'm having a lot of pain in my right breast. It's the one that had surgery and rads. A few years ago I had mastitis [corrected] where it blew up ridiculously large. Antibiotics took care of that. But ever since then it's been thick and lumpy all over. My yearly mammo in January came back clean (except for the usual "very dense").

Now my question: What type of doctor should I start with to diagnose ongoing sharp pain? It's interior as well as exterior. Sometimes just brushing against the surface feels like I have a huge scrape there, but the skin is perfectly fine. It hurts when I'm trying to go to sleep, and at random times during the day.

I haven't seen my ob/gyn since I had a hysterectomy a few years ago (I'm now 60). Haven't seen the oncologist in 10+ years. My surgeon really was no help with the mastitis. Any suggestions? Thanks!

AliceBastable

When in doubt, start with your primary doctor and ask what they recommend.

LW422

I think you might mean "mastitis" since cystitis is a bladder infection...?? Since you haven't seen a doctor in a while you probably should start with your PCP in case you need a referral to a breast specialist. Good luck.

Blinx

Thanks -- you're right -- mastitis! I do have a regular appt with my PCP coming up. Not sure I need referrals anymore, but she could give me a recommendation.

Moderators

Hi Blinx,

Good advice above, but this page from the main Breastcancer.org site might be helpful also!

Talking to Your Doctors About Pain

We hope this helps!

--The Mods

Blinx

Update: Saw my PC who gave me orders for ultra sound and mammogram which I had a few days ago. Result: Birads 5, biopsies needed. It's not looking good. I'll see you in the other topics!

MinusTwo

Blinx - sorry to hear this. Please to post an update once your biopsies are done.