Your breast feeling hard to the touch can be due to several reasons. Here's a breakdown of possible causes:
Possible Causes of Hard Breast Tissue
Cause | Description |
---|---|
Breast Calcifications | Very large, benign calcium deposits, often resulting from procedures like breast reductions or tissue flaps, can feel like a firm lump. |
Breast Infection | An infection in the breast tissue can lead to localized areas of hardening. |
In-depth Explanation
Breast Calcifications
- How it feels: Usually described as a hard lump within the breast tissue.
- What causes it: These calcifications are essentially calcium deposits. They may occur after surgery or breast trauma.
- When to be concerned: While generally benign, large calcifications should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out other conditions.
Breast Infection
- How it feels: You may feel a localized area that is firm, along with other symptoms like redness, warmth, or pain.
- What causes it: Infections can result from bacteria entering the breast tissue.
- When to be concerned: If you notice any signs of infection, such as pain, redness, fever, or swelling, consult a doctor immediately.
When to Seek Medical Advice
It's always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any changes in your breasts. This includes:
- Any new lumps, whether hard or soft.
- Changes in the size or shape of your breast.
- Skin changes, like redness or dimpling.
- Nipple discharge or changes.
Summary
A hard spot in your breast can be due to breast calcifications or an infection. It's best to get any changes checked out by your doctor to be sure.