Large lump in each breast

Hey. I'm almost 16 but when I was 9 (year 5), I found a small painful lump in one breast. I told my mum and we went to the doctors who said it was a breast bud. It then went away.

A few weeks lasted it then came back and a year down the line, I had one in both breasts. They have continued to grow and now are hard and don't move. When on my period they are painful. I'm a 30D but the lumps take up most of my breast and you can't move them. I occasionally get slight chest pressure around the area too although I only get like this when I'm stressed and anxious about the situation. 

 

I'm so scared to tell my mum as I don't want her to worry even though the thought of it is tearing me apart. 
 

Do I have cancer if so, has it spread?

Someone please help me Xx

  • I've just had a reply to my email from a lovely lady called Wanda who really put my mind at ease although I am still really concerned. 

  • Hi Sunshine123321123,

    If you haven't already, please read the disclaimer at the bottom. 

    I'm sorry that you're so worried but I can completely understand why you may be. Please be assured that breast cancer is incredibly rare in people of your age group and breast symptoms are almost always caused by other issues, most of which are nothing to worry about. This is clearly something that worries you and you absolutely should get this checked. I understand you don't want to worry your mother but I have no doubt she will be understanding. More than anything, I'm sure she would want to help you. Please tell her and see if you can arrange to see your GP. Unfortunately no one here can tell you whether or not you've got cancer or whether it has spread, but your GP will be more than to assess you and see what is going on. 

    DISCLAIMER: I am not a medical professional. I work as a cancer coordinator in the NHS & have familiarity with many cancer processes. I am not qualified to offer clinical advice & if you require this you should always seek a qualified professional. My advice is offered on a personal basis only.

  •  

    Hi Sunshine,

    Welcome to our forum. What a worry to have kept to yourself for so long. We girls have a lot to put up with in life. Our breasts change as we begin to develop and can be tender as they're growing. Then, as if that wasn't enough we get periods and are expected to bear children.

    I am not medical in any way. I am just another cancer pilgrim myself. Hopefully, what you are describing is just due to the fact that your breasts are, or have been developing.  However, if you were my daughter, I'd be upset if you didn't tell me about this. We always worry about our children and, I'm sure that your Mum would rather worry with you, than leave you to be upset on your own.

    I totally agree with Theseday. You should tell your Mum and see your GP as soon as you can. Please don't worry if you are referred to the breast clinic. This is as much to rule things out, as it is to confirm cancer. Of all the people referred to the clinic only 1 person in 8 will be diagnosed with cancer. At your age, it is more likely to be hormonal and, I sincerely hope that it is.

    Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    My fingers are crossed for you and, I'm hoping for good news!

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx