Mammary Duct Ectasia

Women have a pair of breasts that serve some important biological functions. The breasts are designed with milk ducts that serve to provide the new born baby with mother’s milk. The breasts are also an important feature in the physical appearance of a woman. When it comes to sexual satisfaction and response as well, the breasts play an important role. During pregnancy, the breasts will feel larger and heavier as they prepare to deliver milk to the baby.

Mammary duct ectasia is a condition that affects many women, particularly women at or around the age of menopause. It is important to note at this stage itself that mammary duct ectasia does not necessarily point out to breast cancer. Mammary duct ectasia also does not raise the risk of the woman developing breast cancer. Mammary duct ectasia is therefore a benign condition that needs to be treated in order for its resolution. In many cases, there is no mammary duct ectasia treatment needed, the condition is self resolving.

It is important to know the various mammary duct ectasia symptoms so that the condition can be diagnosed. Some of the mammary duct ectasia symptoms include swelling below the nipples, red irritated skin around the nipples and the presence of a sticky discharge from the nipples. This sticky discharge may be grey or black in color. Occasionally, the discharge may also be green in color. When a woman experiences this third symptom, that is the symptom of discharge, she should visit a doctor immediately.

Another of the symptoms of mammary duct ectasia may be quite disturbing to women. This symptom involves the retraction of the nipple into the breast. While this might scare the woman, it is not a serious problem and should resolve once the condition of mammary duct ectasia has cleared up.

The diagnosis of mammary duct ectasia or breast duct ectasia can be done by visual and physical examination of the breasts. Many doctors find it prudent to check the extent of the condition using imaging tests. A mammogram or an ultrasound imaging exam may be conducted on the woman to check the nature and extent of the condition. This is the best way to make an accurate diagnosis of the condition of mammary duct ectasia.

Mammary Duct Ectasia Treatment

Mammary duct ectasia treatment depends entirely on the extent of the condition. If the condition is mild, then it may be allowed to resolve itself. The doctor may recommend the application of a compress to the area to provide some relief if there is any pain felt by the woman. Warm packs help considerably in such a situation. When this condition occurs, it is advisable that the woman spend some extra time cleaning her breasts.

When the condition develops into an infection, the woman will need treatment in the form of antibiotics. As mentioned above, when there is an infection, a visit to the doctor is essential. The doctor is qualified to make a diagnosis and to prescribe any medication that may be needed to sort out the condition properly and effectively. It is not recommended to go for self medication. In some cases, women with recurring mammary duct ectasia may consult with their doctor on the phone and resume their old method of mammary duct ectasia treatment to clear up any infection.

In general, it is best to follow some basic guidelines for cleanliness and hygiene. Women should bathe regularly and ensure that their breasts are properly cleaned. Over a period of time, negligence can cause dirt to collect in areas of the body which can exacerbate conditions such as mammary duct ectasia. Regular cleaning and washing will help to prevent this condition from occurring.