Anatomically, the adult breast sits atop the pectoralis muscle (the “pec” chest muscle), which is atop the ribcage. The breast tissue extends horizontally (side-to-side) from the edge of the sternum (the firm flat bone in the middle of the chest) out to the midaxillary line (the center of the axilla, or underarm).
Where is our breast?
The breast is the tissue overlying the chest (pectoral) muscles. Women’s breasts are made of specialized tissue that produces milk (glandular tissue) as well as fatty tissue. The amount of fat determines the size of the breast.
What is the anatomy of the breast?
The lobes, lobules, and bulbs are all linked by thin tubes called ducts. These ducts lead to the nipple in the center of a dark area of skin called the areola. Fat fills the spaces between lobules and ducts. There are no muscles in the breast, but muscles lie under each breast and cover the ribs.
Where does the breast start and end?
Breast tissue extends from the collarbone to lower ribs, sternum (breastbone) and armpit.
Where is the position of breast cancer?
Breast cancer originates in your breast tissue. It occurs when breast cells mutate (change) and grow out of control, creating a mass of tissue (tumor). Like other cancers, breast cancer can invade and grow into the tissue surrounding your breast. It can also travel to other parts of your body and form new tumors.
How do normal breast look like?
The skin on your breasts should naturally be more or less flat and smooth. Again, consistency is key. Bumps and birthmarks that are always present are not a problem. A sudden change in the skin on your breasts should be reported to a doctor.
Why Does My breast hurt when I press it?
The most common cause is a poor-fitting bra. Other causes include pregnancy, trauma, muscle strain and prior surgery. Although breast cancer is usually not painful, when it does cause pain, the pain tends to be noncyclical and usually just in one focal spot.
What should breasts feel like?
Normal breast tissue often feels nodular (lumpy) and varies in consistency from woman to woman. Even within each individual woman, the texture of breast tissue varies at different times in her menstrual cycle, and from time to time during her life.
What is under breast?
Fatty tissue fills the spaces around the ducts and lobules. Axillary lymph nodes filter lymph fluid from your breast and help your body fight infection. Ribs can be felt beneath the skin. The clavicle (collarbone) marks the upper boundary of the breast tissue. The sternum (breastbone) can be felt beneath the skin.
What does a breast lump feel like?
“A breast lump will feel like a distinct mass that’s noticeably more solid than the rest of your breast tissue. Lumps can range in size — from the size of a pea to larger than a golf ball — and may or may not be movable,” says Dr. Joshi.
Why do breasts get bigger with age?
With less elasticity, the breasts lose firmness and fullness and can develop a stretched and looser appearance. It’s not uncommon to change your cup size as you age. Dense breast tissue is replaced by fatty tissue as the aging process continues.
What is normal breast size for girl?
The concept of 36-24-36 inches, though quite exaggerated, basically refers to breast size being equal to hips, with a significant narrower waist in between. Breast size is commonly referred to in terms of cup size, B, C, and D cup sizes being most common. C cup is moderate and pleasant size for woman average built.
What are the 5 warning signs of breast cancer?
What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer?
- New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
- Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
- Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
- Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
- Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.
What is breast cancer pain like?
A painless, hard mass that has irregular edges is more likely to be cancer, but breast cancers can be also soft, round, tender, or even painful. Other possible symptoms of breast cancer include: Swelling of all or part of a breast (even if no lump is felt) Skin dimpling (sometimes looking like an orange peel)
What part of the breast is most cancer found?
Most breast cancers develop in the upper outer quadrant of the breast, closest to the armpit. This is because this area has a lot of glandular tissue.
How do you check if your breasts are healthy?
Breast self-exam
- Use the pads of your fingers. Use the pads, not the very tips, of your three middle fingers for the exam.
- Use different pressure levels. Your goal is to feel different depths of the breast by using different levels of pressure to feel all the breast tissue.
- Take your time. Don’t rush.
- Follow a pattern.
Which breast is bigger right or left?
“While a woman’s nipples and areolas tend to be consistent on both breasts, the left breast itself is usually larger than the right.” Other differences may include one being higher or rounder than the other.
Why is my breast hard inside?
Many hard lumps in breast tissue are harmless. They can be caused by hormonal changes and might come and go on their own. These lumps are often easily moved with your fingers and might be tender to the touch. Lumps caused by breast cancer generally don’t cause pain and can’t be easily moved.
What is left breast pain?
Pain under or in the left breast could have many possible causes, such as injury, infection, hormones, and lung problems. Sometimes left breast pain can be related to your heart, so it’s important to first rule this out before considering other causes.
Why does my left breast hurt?
Hormonal fluctuations are the number one reason women have breast pain. Breasts become sore three to five days prior to the beginning of a menstrual period and stop hurting after it starts. This is due to a rise in estrogen and progesterone right before your period.
Why do my breast hurt and feel bigger?
This is known as cyclical breast pain. In the days leading up to your period, your estrogen and progesterone levels can fluctuate dramatically. Estrogen and progesterone increase the size and number of ducts and glands in the breast. They also cause your breasts to retain water, making them heavy and tender.