Nipple discharge: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek emergency help if you have severe weakness, fainting, confusion, trouble breathing, or rapidly worsening illness.

   Nipple discharge by itself is rarely an emergency.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek same-day medical care if your breast becomes red, hot, swollen, and painful, especially with fever or feeling unwell.

   These symptoms may indicate mastitis or an abscess that needs treatment.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange a medical appointment if the discharge:

   • Appears without squeezing
   • Is bloody, clear, or watery
   • Comes from one breast or one nipple opening
   • Keeps returning or does not settle
   • Occurs with a lump, skin change, or newly inverted nipple
   • Starts in a man or after menopause
   • Is milky when you are not pregnant or breastfeeding
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Nipple discharge. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.