Nipple Discharge in Men: Care Instructions

Your Care Instructions

Fluid leaking from one or both nipples is called nipple discharge. Discharge from a man's breast is not normal and should always be checked by a doctor. Nipple discharge may be a symptom of an infection, a side effect of a medicine, or maybe a symptom of breast cancer.

Treatment depends on what is causing the nipple discharge. You may need more tests to find out the cause.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

  • Be safe with medicines. If your doctor gave you medicine, take it exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
  • Avoid scratching, rubbing, or picking at your breast tissue or area around the nipple until you have your follow-up appointment.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have symptoms of a breast infection, such as:
    • Increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around a breast.
    • Red streaks extending from the breast.
    • Pus draining from a breast.
    • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have:

  • A lump or thickening in your breast or armpit.
  • A change in the size or shape of your breast.
  • A change in the shape of a nipple (the nipple may look like it is being pulled into the breast).
  • Skin changes, such as a dimple or pucker.
  • A change in the color or feel of the skin of your breast or the darker area around the nipple (areola).
  • Not gotten better as expected.

Where can you learn more?

Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

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