Breast changes
Hello, I've posted on this forum many times before. I noticed two dimples in late April, which prompted me to go to see my MD. Upon arrival she didn't notice the dimple. Once I showed her a picture she said it looked like peau d orange. So she sent me in for an ultrasound. I went in last week for the results, I was told it was just fibrocystic breast changes. I asked about the two dimples, which she didn't have an explanation for. I told her my breast is swollen and bigger then the other. She brushed it off and said that's normal with fibrocystic breast. I also asked is it normal for changes in just one breast, she said yes. I also told her it wasn't related to my cycle since my cycle has ended. She didn't seem concerned. My breast has been swollen for a month. I have itching sometime but only in the left breast. So far my left breast has been itchy, swollen/large, two dimples, and now my nipple is retracting. I've always had flat nipples but they come erect when touched. Now I'm noticing it takes my left nipple way longer to become erect and when it is erected it's not that hard. It's almost like it's half hard it also sinks in a little. I'm scared to death and I don't know what to do. I don't have insurance and it's frustrating to spend so much money on a doctor thats not taking me serious. I want to see a breast surgeon. Do I need a referral to do so?
Comments
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Do you need a referral to see a breast surgeon? I think that depends on where you live and whether the surgeon him or herself requires a referral. I'm in Ontario and all specialists here require a referral. Since you mention not having insurance coverage, I assume you are in the U.S.. I believe that in most States it's up to the insurance company (not relevant for you) or the doctor as to whether they require a referral. So if you call around, I would guess you could probably find a breast specialist who will see you. Be aware however that he or she might want to redo the ultrasound, which would be an additional expense.
Since you mentioned that you had posted previously, I went back to look at your posts to get more information. You've started a number of different threads over the past 4 weeks; to get the best information and responses, it would be helpful if you stuck with one thread so that those responding have the benefit of seeing all the information you've provided, as well as the other responses you've received to-date.
For the benefit of others, here are links to your previous threads:
https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/83/topics/871468?page=1#post_5397948
https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/83/topics/871629?page=1#post_5402342
https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/83/topics/871785?page=1#post_5406166
I notice that you are 26 years old and it appears that you first noticed the dimple about 6-8 weeks ago. At the time you weren't certain that there was swelling but in later posts indicated that there was significant swelling.
You mention the recent nipple change; have there been any other recent changes, such as more swelling, redness, any spreading of the area that you believe may be peau d'orange?
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Go to a breast cancer center or clinic. They might be able to guide you in the right direction
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