Q: I occasionally notice leaking on my runs. I'm worried that there could be something wrong. What should I do?
Dr. B: Leakage is a very common problem. After you have a child, your ducts produce milk. But even when you're not in that situation, your breasts still create a small amount of fluid. For some women, running causes the openings in the ducts to relax, so that fluid leaks out.
In some cases, discharge can be a red flag, but if you have discharge on both sides there is most likely no cause for concern. Fluid can be yellow, green, brown, white and even purple—all of these colors are completely normal. You should see your physician if you have bloody or very watery fluid leaking from only one nipple.
Dr. Bourland's Top Breast Health Tips
- Be diligent. Perform self-exams regularly and begin scheduling mammograms after the age of 40.
- Find a specialist. Make sure your mammogram is read by a doctor who specializes in breast cancer. Visit a breast center or ask what the doctor's background is when you call to make the appointment.
- Be aware of your breast tissue density. Tissue density can be measured during your mammogram.
- High-density tissue makes mammograms less accurate. Women with this condition must be extra careful during self-exams.
- Exercise regularly. Cardiovascular exercise is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of breast cancer.
- Aim for four to five hours each week.
- Know your family history. If you have had more than one first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) diagnosed with breast cancer, talk to your doctor. You may be high-risk, and should discuss the possibility of genetic testing or breast MRI.
- Eat healthy. Keep your diet low in fat and high in colorful fruit and vegetables.
- Maintain a healthy BMI (below 25 for women).
- Reduce alcohol consumption. Try to drink no more than one beverage per day.
- Monitor hormone replacement therapy (HRT). If you are post-menopausal, discuss the option of reducing the duration of HRT with your doctor.