Bumps around the nipples or on the surrounding areola are common. While the appearance of any new bump can be concerning, many of these small protrusions are a normal part of the body’s anatomy. Understanding the difference between these harmless structures and those indicating irritation or a medical issue is important. Most bumps are benign and require only gentle care, but certain changes signal the need for professional medical evaluation.
Understanding Normal Areolar Bumps
The most common reason for small bumps on the areola are the Montgomery glands, also known as Montgomery tubercles or areolar glands. These are sebaceous, or oil-producing, glands that appear as small, raised bumps on the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple. They are present in all individuals, but hormonal shifts, such as during puberty, the menstrual cycle, or pregnancy, can make them more visible.
The primary function of the Montgomery glands is to lubricate the nipple and areola with an oily secretion. This natural oil helps prevent the skin from cracking, especially during breastfeeding, and contains antibacterial properties that protect against infection. The number of these glands varies widely, but they should typically be painless and unchanged in color.
Other normal structures contributing to the bumpy appearance include hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Hair follicles are present in the areola skin and can occasionally become slightly raised or inflamed, similar to minor skin irritation. These structures are simply part of the skin’s makeup in this area and do not require any specific action unless they become irritated or infected.
Identifying Causes of Problematic Bumps
When bumps become red, tender, or painful, they usually signal an underlying irritation or minor skin condition. Folliculitis is a common cause, occurring when hair follicles on the areola become inflamed due to friction, sweat, or a bacterial infection. This condition often presents as small, red, acne-like bumps or pustules.
Another frequent cause is contact dermatitis, a skin reaction triggered by external substances. This can be a reaction to harsh soaps, fragranced detergents, fabric softeners, or materials in clothing like restrictive or non-breathable bras. Contact dermatitis typically causes the skin to become itchy, scaly, or inflamed.
Infections can also manifest as problematic bumps, particularly yeast or fungal infections that thrive in warm, moist environments, which can occur beneath the breast or in tight-fitting clothing.
Cysts, such as epidermal cysts, can develop when skin cells or oil glands become blocked beneath the surface. These pockets of tissue may feel like smooth, slow-growing lumps beneath the skin. While usually painless, they can become inflamed if infected.
At-Home Strategies for Relief and Resolution
For bumps resulting from mild irritation, friction, or clogged pores, simple adjustments to daily habits can often lead to relief. Gentle cleansing involves washing the area daily with a mild, non-fragranced soap and warm water. Avoid harsh scrubbing or the use of acne medications on the areola, as these can strip the skin of the natural, protective oils produced by the Montgomery glands.
Choosing appropriate clothing can significantly reduce irritation and the likelihood of folliculitis. Opting for loose-fitting clothing and bras made from breathable, natural fibers like cotton can minimize friction and prevent moisture from building up against the skin. After exercise or any activity that causes sweating, changing out of damp clothes promptly and wiping the area with a soft towel or wipe can prevent pore blockages.
Resist the urge to manipulate, squeeze, or pop the bumps, even if they resemble acne. Squeezing can introduce bacteria, leading to a deeper infection, increased inflammation, and potential scarring. If the skin is dry or mildly irritated, applying a small amount of a simple, non-irritating moisturizer, such as pure coconut oil, can help soothe and hydrate the area.
When to Seek Professional Medical Guidance
While most bumps are harmless or resolve with home care, certain symptoms require evaluation by a healthcare provider. Any bump accompanied by persistent pain, tenderness, or warmth in the surrounding tissue should be checked for signs of infection. Symptoms like fever or an overall feeling of being unwell, in addition to the bump, suggest a more significant infection, such as a subareolar abscess.
Seek medical advice for any bump that rapidly changes in size, shape, or color, or if it bleeds, oozes discharge, or does not resolve after several weeks of home care. Other red flags include changes in the nipple itself, such as inversion, or the skin becoming scaly, dimpled, or crusty. A medical professional can accurately diagnose the cause, which may involve a visual assessment, a culture, or a referral for specialized treatment.