Breast lumps can occur for a number of reasons. Breast lumps are frequently due to hormonal changes, although some lumps can be a symptom of a more serious disorder, such as breast cancer. Vitamin E is an alternative treatment for reducing the appearance and discomfort of breast lumps, although more research is necessary to support this type of treatment. Notify your doctor if you notice a lump in your breasts.
Breast Lumps
A condition that involves fibrocystic changes in breast tissue is a common occurrence in women, especially in women who are in their reproductive years. Mastalgia is breast pain that often accompanies fibrocystic changes. This type of lumpiness usually occurs cyclically, in response to fluctuating hormone levels, although some postmenopausal women may also experience fibrocystic breast changes. This condition usually affects both breasts and may cause a dull, heavy aching, as well as breast swelling. Medical treatments for fibrocystic breast lumps include topical applications of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory creams and oral medications, such as danazol and tamoxifen, although both these drugs can cause unpleasant side effects.
Vitamin E
Some women notice a decrease in fibrocystic breast changes when taking vitamin E supplements, although current medical literature remains inconclusive regarding the benefits of this alternative treatment. While you can purchase vitamin E supplements, this fat-soluble vitamin exists naturally in many foods. Nutritious sources of vitamin E include liver, sunflower seeds, eggs, nuts, yams, greens and nuts.
Dosage
The standard recommended dose of vitamin E is 22.5 IU per day for adults, although breast-feeding women should consume 28.5 IU daily. A single milligram of vitamin E is equal to 1.5 IU. The upper tolerable intake level is 1,500 IU, or 1,000 mg, per day.
Precautions
Although vitamin E may help treat some cases of fibrocystic breast changes, new or unusual breast lumps require a medical exam to rule out serious conditions. Avoid treating an undiagnosed health symptom or breast disorder with vitamin and mineral supplements. Supplemental vitamin E can increase your risk of bleeding, especially if you take certain types of blood thinners, such as clopidogrel or warfarin. Vitamin E may also interact with actions of other medications. Avoid taking vitamin E with statins, tamoxifen and beta-blockers.
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