Nipple discharge is the release of fluid from one or both nipples and can vary in color, consistency, and quantity. It may be clear, milky, yellow, green, brown, or bloody, and can occur spontaneously or when the nipple is squeezed. While nipple discharge is often benign, it can sometimes indicate an underlying medical condition. Common causes include hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or breastfeeding, leading to milky discharge. Benign conditions like duct ectasia, where milk ducts become widened and blocked, or fibrocystic breast changes, can also cause discharge. Certain medications, including birth control pills and antidepressants, can increase prolactin levels, leading to nipple discharge. Infections, abscesses, or trauma to the breast can result in discharge that may be green, yellow, or pus-like. In rare cases, bloody or spontaneous discharge could signal breast cancer, such as ductal carcinoma in situ or Paget's disease of the breast.
Treatment for nipple discharge depends on the underlying cause. If the discharge is related to hormonal changes or medications, monitoring and possibly adjusting the medication might be sufficient. For infections, antibiotics or other appropriate treatments are required. If benign breast conditions are diagnosed, conservative management with warm compresses and proper breast support can help. In cases where the discharge is suspicious for malignancy, further diagnostic tests such as mammography, ultrasound, or ductography, and possibly a biopsy, may be needed to determine the cause. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation if the nipple discharge is spontaneous, persistent, bloody, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, to rule out serious conditions.
