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Severe itching in one nipple - should I be worried?

Daisy_chain30
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I've had a small red patch on my breast for 2.5/3 months now and also developed severe itching in the nipple of the same breast, plus red patches that seemed to come and go. I was referred to the breast clinic after Daktocort cream didn't work. They didn't do any tests at the breast clinic but said the red mark is a skin issue, and not related to breast tissue. Also said the appearance of the nipple is normal but didn't comment on the itching. 

The red mark is still there and hasn't changed size (about 1cm across). I've got new steroid cream to try for it, but the itching in my nipple is truly unbearable. I can't bear anything to touch it. I feel like when I go to the doctors they don't really seem interested in that aspect and I haven't been given anything for it - the steroid cream is just for the red patch which is on the outer edge of my breast.

The itching is so bad sometimes I can't get my mind off it and don't know what to do with myself. Moisturiser doesn't seem to help at all.

Given how bad it is and the fact that it's one-sided (and I'm not breast feeding), could this be cancer and should I try harder to get the doctor to listen? (I'm 32). I wonder if something was missed at the breast clinic because they didn't do any tests and just said I'm too young for breast cancer

 

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    I am sorry to hear about your itching on your breast. I can understand how uncomfortable it must be for you.

    We can't diagnose you but I think that you need to be reassured that you have been  seen the breast clinic and they did not seem concerned. They are very experienced at looking at breasts as this is what they do all the time. I am sure if they were concerned about the red mark on your breast they would have looked in to it more detail.

    Breast cancer at your age is not common. It is usually a cancer of women in their 50's and 60's. 

    Try and look at whether there is anything irritating your breast such as a lacy bra and maybe try using a very gentle washing powder such as fairy. Avoid any soap on the breast area.

    I hope that the new steroid cream clears it up and helps the itching. You could also try speaking to a pharmacist to see if there is anything that they can suggest that can help your symptoms.

    If of course after a couple of weeks that it is not clearing up then do go back to the GP.

    I do so hope that it feels better soon.

    All the Best,

    Catherine

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