What Causes And Treatments Of Nipple Discharge?
Causes and treatments of nipple discharge can be confusing because the actual cause of a discharge is not clear. However, it is generally accepted that the discharge occurs as a result of the endocrine glands of the body, specifically the nipple and the breast, experiencing hormonal changes. Those hormonal changes are commonly referred to as the menstrual cycle, since the release is often the same during each month of the cycle. Those hormonal changes can result in several different symptoms and changes in the nipple discharge of lactating women. These changes are sometimes difficult to recognize as the cause of the discharge.
Generally the color, smell and texture of the discharge are very consistency. It is often thick and yellow-orange in color and the center or the tip of the discharge is usually whitish. The nipple discharge may appear to be more watery compared to other discharge and may have a milky look. It is also often itchier than normal. Some women may also experience an increased amount of discharge when they are pregnant.
Treatment and cures of nipple discharge depend on the actual cause and the location of the discharge. In some cases treatment and cures of nipple discharge can include simple changes to the woman’s normal hormonal make up and her daily routines. Some women are also treated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This form of treatment consists of taking hormone supplements to replace the hormones that are missing due to the pregnancy or aging process. However, this form of treatment of the discharge is controversial and has been debated by medical professionals for many years.
Other causes and treatments of nipple discharge include stress, infections, fungal or bacterial infections of the skin, allergies, and inappropriate use of topical creams, gels and powders. Many times women will find that applying certain products that are designed to help reduce the appearance of the discharge are actually the cause or a symptom of the discharge. This is because certain products may include added ingredients that can further irritate and dry out the skin, therefore further reducing the appearance of the discharge. Using such products in an attempt to alleviate the symptoms is often only a short term solution.
If you are unsure what type of discharge you may be experiencing, it is best to consult a doctor. Your doctor may order additional tests to determine the nature and cause of the discharge. This is especially important if the discharge is accompanied by other symptoms such as itching or burning. Some of the more common lab tests that your doctor may order include mammography, endometrial biopsy, or cystometry. A cystogram is a specialized test that uses a digital x-ray camera to create images of the interior of the reproductive organs.
The treatments of nipple discharge are not limited to hormonal treatments or surgery. In many cases the discharge is not caused by any underlying medical condition. It is often a normal part of pregnancy and can be treated with natural remedies. Always consult your doctor before attempting to treat yourself for a medical condition.
