Lump in breast, I'm only 18

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Katie2811
Katie2811 Member Posts: 3
edited March 2018 in Not Diagnosed But Worried

About 2/3 weeks ago during my period I found a lump in my left breast. It's about the size of a quarter (or smaller it's hard to tell) and quite firm and feels a bit like an eraser. It moves around very easily and changes places slightly depending on the position I'm in but mostly stays on the left side of my breast unless i touch it. I found it while experiencing breast pain during my period, which is the same type of pain i have always had every month since i first got my period (a bit like a burning/stabbing sensation). This made me believe it could be a cyst which is why i waited for my period to end before seeing a doctor. Although the pain has gone away, the lump hasn't and I'm worried. As I'm currently in the process of joining the military I'm waiting until my physical exam next week to hear what the doctor has to say before I make a personal appointment. I was wondering if anyone has had a similar experience or has any ideas of the cause/what it could be. I'm only 18 and my family has no history of cancer so I understand my chances are very slim. Here are some other detials which may help I guess:

1. The lump is smooth but feels as though it's beneath tissue as its size appears slightly different depending on whether i'm laying down or leaning forward. The surface also feels slightly like my other breast tissue.

2. Around the time i noticed the lump i have also had occasional pains in my left arm/shoulder. However since I lift quite heavy weights 4/5 times a week it seems more likely to be an injury as i also had tendonitis in that arm previously.

3. I have had no visible/other physical changes in my breast, and the lump hasn't changed in size.

I would really appreciate if anyone has any help or advice while I anxiously wait to see a doctor. I don't think I have ever been this afraid in my life and this has been on my mind every second since discovering it.

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Comments

  • ml143333
    ml143333 Member Posts: 658
    edited February 2018

    I am sorry you are so scared. Most of the time, these things do not tend to be cancerous but I applaud you for taking it seriously. If you have a gyn or family doctor, why not go ahead and give them a call rather than wait 2 more weeks for your physical? It couldn't hurt.

    As much as you can, stop touching it. That will only increase any inflammation and you could be making it painful. Also, stay off of the internet. Dr. Google is not your friend.

    I wish you well.

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  • mustlovepoodles
    mustlovepoodles Member Posts: 2,825
    edited February 2018

    Aww, i bet you are scared. Our breasts, particularly young breasts, are prone to lots of lumps, bumps, and rashes. At the age of 18 your risk of having breast cancer is essentially zero, so take some solace in that. As ml suggested, you might want to stay off Google. He's a terrible friend. All things "breast" go to "breast cancer" on Google, and that's not going to help you at all.

    Best of luck to you and thank you for serving our country. Let us know how things go.

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  • Moderators
    Moderators Member Posts: 25,912
    edited February 2018

    Katie2811, indeed, we understand being anxious. Great answers and suggestions above from our lovely community members. Hang in there, and give a call to your doctor.

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  • bluepearl
    bluepearl Member Posts: 961
    edited February 2018

    While it is rare to have b.c. at 18, it isn't impossible but I am glad your are taking action! My friend's daughter had b.c. at 24 and no one thought it was because of her age. ALWAYS follow up and ask "could this be cancer?" If you aren't satisfied, get a second opinion or ask for a mammogram.

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  • Katie2811
    Katie2811 Member Posts: 3
    edited March 2018

    Thank you all for your lovely replies. I'm seeing a doctor on Friday so it's not long now. Since yesterday the pain/tenderness has returned in both breasts but it's definitely worse in the lump in my left. I'm taking comfort in this since it's also 3 days until my next period, so the pain is definitely linked with my cycle and I heard that this is not usually the case with BC. Hopefully I will know what it is soon

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  • bluepearl
    bluepearl Member Posts: 961
    edited March 2018

    Glad you are being pro-active with knowing your breasts! Comendable. And not likely cancer, either, but always get checked. Breast cancer isn't just a disease of older women.

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  • Katie2811
    Katie2811 Member Posts: 3
    edited March 2018

    The process took a little longer since the doctor also discovered a minor heart condition I didn't know I had, but I finally swore into the airforce today after finding out both are benign. I'm completely over the moon right now. Thank you for everyone's kind words. I send my love to the brave women battling this disease. How strong you all are. I do wish you all the best.

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  • Icietla
    Icietla Member Posts: 1,265
    edited March 2018

    Wonderful news! Very happy for you, Katie.

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  • mustlovepoodles
    mustlovepoodles Member Posts: 2,825
    edited March 2018

    Thats great news, Katie. I wish you all the best in your new career.

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