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 or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) 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 or nurse advice line 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 or nurse advice line 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 or nurse advice line 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 colour 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
Enter K668 in the search box to learn more about "Nipple Discharge in Men: Care Instructions".
Current as of: November 27, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
