A painful lump on nipple is a swelling or mass beneath or around the nipple that causes discomfort or tenderness. This symptom may arise from various causes, ranging from minor issues to serious medical conditions.
The nipple and surrounding areola contain milk ducts, nerves, and small glands. A lump forms when tissue becomes inflamed, infected, or abnormal. Pain occurs when the lump presses on nerves or triggers inflammation.
Lumps on the nipple vary by location, size, and cause. Common types include:
| Type | Cause | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Milk duct ectasia | Blocked milk ducts | Fluid-filled ducts under the nipple, common in middle-aged women |
| Intraductal papilloma | Noncancerous growth | Small wart-like growth inside a milk duct, often causing bloody discharge |
| Mastitis | Infection | Breast tissue infection, common in breastfeeding women |
| Abscess | Severe infection | Pus-filled pocket requiring drainage, often from untreated mastitis |
| Paget disease | Rare cancer | Scaly, eczema-like rash on the nipple linked to underlying breast cancer |
Consult a healthcare provider if:
Many causes are benign, but prompt evaluation ensures proper treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, most breast lumps are not cancerous, but early detection improves outcomes for serious cases.
People often confuse nipple lumps with:
Sarah noticed a tender lump under her left nipple. It felt like a small pea and became more painful when she touched it. She also saw clear fluid when she pressed gently. Her doctor diagnosed an intraductal papilloma and recommended monitoring. The lump resolved without treatment within six weeks.
Most nipple lumps resolve with proper care. However, persistent or worsening symptoms require medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes for infections, injuries, or rare cancers.