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Lifestyle and home remedies
By Mayo Clinic staffTo minimize discomfort associated with breast cysts, you might try these measures:
- Wear a well-fitted, supportive bra. If you have breast pain from a breast cyst, good support to surrounding breast tissue may help relieve some discomfort.
- Avoid caffeine. There's no scientific proof that caffeine consumption is linked to breast cysts. However, some women find relief from their symptoms after eliminating caffeine from their diets. Consider reducing or eliminating caffeine — in beverages, as well as in foods such as chocolate — to see if your symptoms improve.
- Reduce salt in your diet. Although studies on salt restriction and cyst formation aren't conclusive, some experts suggest that reducing salt in your diet may help. Consuming less sodium reduces the amount of excess fluid retained by your body, which in turn may help relieve symptoms associated with a fluid-filled breast cyst.
- Consider trying over-the-counter pain medications if your doctor recommends them. Some types of breast pain may be eased by the use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) or naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn).
References
- Non-cancerous breast conditions. American Cancer Society. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_6X_Non_Cancerous_Breast_Conditions_59.asp?sitearea. Accessed Sept. 18, 2012.
- Pruthi S, et al. Vitamin E and evening primrose oil for management of cyclical mastalgia: A randomized pilot study. Alternative Medicine Review. 2010;15:59.
- Salzman B, et al. Common breast problems. American Family Physician. 2012;86:343.
- Evening primrose oil. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed Sept. 19, 2012.
- Understanding breast changes: A health guide for women. National Cancer Institute. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/screening/understanding-breast-changes. Accessed Sept. 18, 2012.
- Laronga C, et al. Breast cysts: Clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Sept 18, 2012.
- Gallenberg MM (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Oct. 11, 2012.
- Pruthi S (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Oct. 11, 2012.
- Ferrara A. Benign breast disease. Radiologic Technology. 2011;82:447M.
- Pearlman MD, et al. Benign breast disease. Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2010:116;747.
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