[5] The cystic nature of a breast lump can be confirmed by ultrasound examination, aspiration[6] (removal of contents with needle), or mammogram.

Ultrasound can also show if the cyst contains solid nodules, a sign that the lesion may be pre-cancerous or cancerous.

However, the medical history and physical examination also play an important role in establishing an accurate diagnosis.

During these tests, the doctor will try to find out as much information as possible regarding the symptoms the patient has experienced, their intensity and duration and the physical examination is performed regularly to check for other abnormalities that may exist within the breast.

[7] Breast ultrasounds are performed with the help of a handheld medical instrument which is placed on the skin, after a special type of fluid has been applied on it.

Some complex cysts may require further diagnostic measures such as fine needle aspiration or biopsy to exclude breast cancer however the overwhelming majority is of benign nature.

Although caffeine consumption does not have a scientifically proved connection with the process of cyst development, many women claim that their symptoms are relieved if avoiding it.

Some doctors recommend reducing the amount of caffeine in one's diet in terms of both beverages and foods (such as chocolate).

Also reducing salt intake may help in alleviating the symptoms of breast cysts, although, again, there is no scientific linkage between these two.

Excessive sugar consumption as well as undetected food allergies, such as to gluten or lactose, may also contribute to cyst development.

[1] Nipple cysts (commonly duct infections) may benefit from a hot compress to draw out the pus and antibacterial cream.

[11] Fine needle aspiration allows retrieval of cytological samples that can be sent for pathological review to determine if the cyst is benign or malignant.

Moreover, if cysts are aspirated and the fluid looks normal, they do not require any other medical attention apart from following-up to make sure they have completely disappeared.

Hormone therapy, by the means of oral contraceptives, is sometimes prescribed to reduce their recurrence and to regulate the menstrual cycle of the patient (which is likely to cause them in the first place).

Danazol may also be prescribed to treat this condition and it is usually considered in patients on whom the non-medical treatment fails and the symptoms are intense.

A properly fitted sports bra, which compresses or encapsulates breast tissue, is designed to reduce pain caused by exercise.