Hello,
Thanks for your queries at DoctorSpring.com.
Normally nipples do have some discharge from time to time ~ hence the itchy stimulation to discharge some fluid. If it is happening so infrequently as you say once a year, then I do not feel it is cause for alarm. This may be due to a build up in the ducts of discharge produced by the mammary glands known as duct ectasia ~ which is more of a concern in pregnant ladies. This a benign condition that does not require any treatment, as it usually disappears on its own.
Since you are not pregnant or lactating, there is not much cause for concern. Symptoms to watch out for are nipple and breast tenderness, changes in color of the discharge or fever. These are signs of infection or inflammation and you would need to be evaluated for other benign but more serious conditions. If you notice any other symptoms, or it is happening more frequently and persisting, then I would advise you to make an appointment with your local doctor.
Hope this helps. Please ask any follow up questions, if any. Take care.
Patient replied :
I am just worried because on the same of my body on my nape of my neck, I have had a grape sized lump that feels like it is embedded into my muscle. You can only feel it when you really dig your fingers into my neck and kind of pinch it. Especially if I lean my head forward (chin to my chest and start feeling around, I can feel it.) It has been there now atleast 2 years. It feels somewhat firm and I guess kind of rubbery. I asked my mom to check it out (she is a pediatrician) but she claims she doesnt feel anything, but I CLEARLY Feel it. It has not changed in size, it occasionally gets sore if I touch it too much. I read that it could be a lymph node, but why would a lymph node be there for so long? So now that I am having this occasional discharge and itchiness in my breast, I wonder if it is a sign my body is fighting off something serious? I dont know if I should get a mammogram and ultrasound of my breasts, blood drawn, and go to ENT to exam what that lump is, and if it has any connection to my occasional breast issues?
Hello,
The small rubbery swelling is most likely a Lymph Node as you suspect. But you should understand Lymph Nodes are normal glands in the body. Only if there is "significant lymphadenopathy" it is a concern. It can get enlarged in infection or inflammation. This particular isolated lymph node does not appear to be significant. Moreover it is there for 2 years without much change.
It is unlikely that the breast symptoms and the LN enlargement is related. The LN is outside the drainage area of the breast. Moreover the symptoms are not suggestive of anything serious. However it is always prudent to have basic evaluation of the breast. I suggest a breast self examination and a mammogram in consult with your Doctor. ENT opinion is not needed as of now. You should get in touch with a General Surgeon who can evaluate the breast symptoms and the Lymph Node.
There is no reason to worry and do not be pre occupied with the lymph node. However do get a MD consult. It will also clear up your mind too.
Hope this helps
Please feel free to ask followup questions / clarifications
Thank you