Introduction
Human breasts have a center part called the nipple which is surrounded by a pigmented area known as an areola. The nipple is connected with milk producing ducts. Many people often complain of bumps on their nipples. It can be due to various reasons, some of which may be a cause of concern.
What Are the Causes of Bumps on the Nipple?
The various causes of bumps on nipples are,
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Acne.
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Subareolar abscess.
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Ingrown hair.
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Paget’s disease of the breast.
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Montgomery’s tubercles.
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Cysts and tumors of the breast.
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Thrush.
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Piercings.
Acne -
As a known fact, acne commonly affects the face. But it can extend beyond the face too. Acne can be seen in the nipple and areola as a bump. It occurs due to the clogging of pores with sweat and oil. It is most common in women who work out constantly and sweat a lot. It usually contains the whitehead at the top and a red bump below it. Acne is commonly found in women due to hormonal changes, continuous workouts, medications, and cosmetic creams. Usually, the acne resolves on its own in a few weeks. However, certain acne will not go away, and it needs more medical attention.
Subareolar Abscess -
The pigmented area surrounding the nipple is known as the areola. Underneath the areola, several glands are present called areolar glands. An abscess can grow on the areolar gland, called a subareolar abscess. It can give the appearance of a bump.
A subareolar abscess is caused due to an obstruction of the duct, leading to abscess formation. This condition commonly affects non-breastfeeding women. It appears as a tender lump on the areolar region, occasionally associated with pus discharge.
It can be diagnosed with the help of an ultrasound. Treatment includes antibiotics and drainage of the infected tissue. In case of a recurrent abscess, surgical removal is suggested.
Ingrown Hair -
The nipple is surrounded by numerous tiny hair follicles and can house many ingrown hairs. These ingrown hairs can become infected and give rise to a bump, which is itchy, raised, filled with pus, hard to touch, and red. Ingrown hairs can be treated with warm compresses if it is a mild condition. In case of severely infected ingrown hair, topical antibiotic creams will be necessary.
Paget’s Disease of the Breast -
Paget’s disease of the breast is commonly known as the paget’s disease of the nipple. It is a form of breast cancer affecting both men and women. Nearly 1 % to 4 % of the ones getting affected by breast cancer, have paget’s variety. It starts with eczema-like skin on the nipples and spreads to the areola. It can be painful, red, burning, itchy, sore, and inflamed.
Ones with a family history of breast cancer, previous history of benign breast growth, elderly people, alcohol intake, and obesity are more prone to paget’s disease of the nipple.
It can be diagnosed with a breast examination and biopsy. Treatment includes complete removal of the breast (mastectomy) or central excision of the nipple and areola, and tissue associated with the. Treatment will also be accompanied by chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy. To shape the rest of the breast, breast reconstruction surgery can be done.
Montgomery’s Tubercles -
The areola glands are known as Montgomery glands. There are numerous pore-like structures present on the areola and they are called Montgomery's tubercles. These tubercles are not a matter of concern and can appear as a bump. It is, in fact, protective in function. These Montgomery's tubercles produce secretions that act as a moisturizer of the skin. These tubercles can enlarge during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Milk Blisters -
Milk spots, also known as milk blebs, are white spots filled with milk. It often appears as a raised bump. Milk blisters can occur due to various reasons like improper latching of the baby while breastfeeding, excess supply of milk, blocked nipple pores, or an infection. This can be treated with warm compresses, nipple massages, nursing at short intervals, antibiotics, pain- relievers, and creams.
Cysts and Tumors of the Breast -
A cyst is a fluid-filled round and smooth lump seen in the breasts. It occurs due to dilation of the milk duct. It is harmless and it resolves on its own. Tumors of the breast show the first sign of a lump. Lumps of breast cancer will usually be painless, irregularly shaped and hard. The skin covering the lump will be red and pitted. Even the size and shape of breasts will undergo changes. Treatment for breast tumors will depend on the severity and the type of cancer. Common treatment procedures include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapy.
Eczema -
Eczema can be seen appearing on the nipple or areola due to allergic reactions to cloth detergents. The affected skin will be dry, scaly, itchy, and bumpy. Genetic factors are also found to cause eczema. It can be treated with utmost care. Hydrocortisone ointment will relieve itching. Mild soaps can be used to wash the affected area. It is not advisable to rub or scratch the skin.
Thrush -
Thrush is a yeast infection caused by Candida albicans. It affects the nipples more commonly and is known as nipple thrush. It is characterized by a cracked, dry, and scaly nipple. Nipple thrush causes a lot of pain, especially while feeding. Thrush infection can be seen in the baby’s mouth also (oral thrush).
Nipple thrush can be treated with antifungal medicines and antifungal creams or ointments.
Pregnancy -
During pregnancy, hormones like progesterone levels will be heightened. Thus, the breast will be more tender, tingly, and the milk ducts will become larger. Even the areolar glands become larger and the nipple appears with numerous bumps.
At the time of pregnancy, the occurrence of cysts and galactoceles are common. Galactoceles are basically filled with milk and it does not need any treatment like cysts unless it is causing any pain. In that case, needle aspiration can be done.
Breastfeeding -
In breastfeeding mothers, the milk duct gets blocked and shows up as a bump in the nipple area. It can be relieved by feeding the baby often and gentle massages.
Piercings -
Piercings done in the nipple area or the breasts can result in infections more often. A cyst-filled with fluid may develop under the skin, causing a bump. Even a scar-tissue formation (keloid) can happen after a piercing.
Conclusion
Bumps on the nipple can be a harmless condition or a serious medical condition. Though most of the time it is benign, it is advised to seek a doctor’s help in knowing the true facts. So that immediate care and attention can be given in case of anything serious.
