Fibroadenoma of the breast is a mixed tumor occurring in the fibrous tissue and glandular epithelium within the breast lobules and is the most common type of benign breast tumor. Fibroadenomas can occur in women of any age after puberty, but are most common in young women aged 18 to 25. The occurrence of this condition is related to endocrine hormone imbalances, such as a relative or absolute increase in estrogen levels that can cause the disease. The cause of this condition is the abnormally increased sensitivity of fibrous cells within the lobules to estrogen, which may be related to abnormalities in the quantity or quality of estrogen receptors contained in the fibrous cells. Estrogen is the stimulating factor for the occurrence of this condition, hence fibroadenomas occur during the ovarian functional period. The most important clinical manifestation of fibroadenoma is a breast lump, and in most cases, the breast lump is the only symptom of the condition. The lumps of fibroadenoma are usually discovered incidentally by the patient and are generally not accompanied by pain, nor do they change with the menstrual cycle. In a few cases, fibroadenoma coexists with hyperplasia of the breast, and in such cases, there may be premenstrual breast pain. Fibroadenomas are not as easily reduced as hyperplasia of the breast, are difficult to cure, and have the potential to undergo malignant change. Women should perform regular breast examinations and can also use simple self-examination methods: 1. Mirror inspection: Stand in front of a mirror with hands down, observe whether the appearance of the breasts is normal, such as whether the nipples are retracted; whether the skin has wrinkles, swelling, etc.; gently pinch the nipples to see if there is any discharge. Then check for lumps in the armpit. Finally, raise both hands above the head and repeat the inspection. 2. Supine inspection: Lie on the bed, those with full breasts can place a small pillow or folded towel under the left shoulder, let the left hand rest behind the head, straighten the fingers of the right hand and gently press the left breast, making small circular massages. At this time, you can imagine the breast as a clock face, starting from the 12 o'clock position, and check clockwise (or counterclockwise, but the direction must be consistent) until you return to the starting point, with at least 3 circles of massage. Use the above method to examine the right breast with the left hand. Breast symmetry is an important reference. If any abnormalities are found, please go to the hospital for further examination as soon as possible.
It is recommended to perform moxibustion once a day, targeting 2 to 3 acupoints each time, with each acupoint being treated for 30 to 40 minutes. Rotate the points treated, with a 10-day period constituting one course of treatment, and then rest for 2 to 3 days before continuing with the next course. (If time permits and there is a need, more acupoints can be treated with moxibustion. The specific duration should be adjusted according to one's own physical needs.)
1. Develop good living habits, avoid spicy food, and do not stay up late. 2. Regulate emotions and avoid depressive moods. 3. Take care of your breasts and adhere to regular check-ups. If a lump is found in the breast, consult a breast specialist immediately for examination and cooperate with the treatment. Although fibroadenomas are benign tumors, they also have the potential to become malignant, especially during pregnancy and lactation when the tumor grows rapidly, or in older age, with a long course of the disease, or accompanied by hyperplasia of the breast or multiple recurrences, one should be vigilant, seek medical attention promptly, and prevent changes in the condition. Every woman should aim to prevent, detect, and treat early, paying special attention to her own breasts.