Concerned and seeking information

I am 30 years old, I had my second child by the grace of god 3 years ago. I breast fed him for 6 months until my left nipple became inverted, it stayed that way permanently. With all my research I found that it can be normal after breastfeeding but never went and got it examined while i had health coverage. Cosmetically I have been ok with having one inny and one outy, but now I am experiencing shooting needle sharp pain through my left nipple to my back and shoulder and then to my left bicep, I also get some discharge, almost like infection in the nipple duct. It burns, it stings, it is flat out uncomfortable. I have found no lumps, no growths or discoloration. But, I am no professional by any means. I know i should get it checked but I have no health coverage at all, and no history of breast cancer in my family. I'm wondering if this is something to worry about, suck it up and deal with the bill (it is my life) or is this something that happens after breast feeding? I'm just looking for guidance on what's normal and abnormal as in "yes, get checked!" Thank you for reading and any info helps. Sincerely concerned.