Summary about Disease
Breast implant illness (BII) is a term used by women who have breast implants to describe a wide range of symptoms that they believe are caused by their implants. It is not a recognized medical diagnosis, meaning it's not formally defined or universally accepted by the medical community. Symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, and the connection between implants and these symptoms remains under investigation. Both silicone and saline implants have been associated with BII.
Symptoms
The range of symptoms associated with BII is extensive and can include:
Fatigue
Brain fog/cognitive dysfunction
Joint and muscle pain
Hair loss
Headaches
Skin rashes
Digestive problems
Dry eyes/blurred vision
Anxiety and depression
Breathing difficulties
Night sweats
Food sensitivities
Weight changes
Swollen lymph nodes
Heart palpitations
Causes
The exact cause of BII is unknown, and it is an area of active research and debate. Several theories exist:
Immune Response: Some believe that the body may react to the implants as a foreign object, triggering an immune or inflammatory response.
Silicone Bleed: Silicone implants can "bleed" tiny amounts of silicone over time, which may trigger an adverse reaction in some individuals.
Biofilm: Bacteria can form a biofilm on the surface of implants, potentially leading to chronic inflammation.
Genetic Predisposition: Some women may be genetically predisposed to developing adverse reactions to implants.
Other Contributing Factors: The overall health and immune system function of the individual may play a role.
Medicine Used
There is no specific medicine to treat BII because it's not a formally recognized disease. Treatment focuses on managing individual symptoms. This might include:
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription medications for joint and muscle pain.
Anti-inflammatory drugs: To reduce inflammation.
Antihistamines: For skin rashes or allergic reactions.
Medications for specific symptoms: Such as antidepressants for depression or medication for digestive issues.
Explant surgery: The removal of the breast implants (with or without the capsule surrounding the implant) is the most common "treatment" reported by women who believe they have BII, often with reported improvement in symptoms.
Is Communicable
No, breast implant illness is not communicable. It is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions to prevent BII, as the causes are not fully understood. However, some considerations include:
Informed Decision: Thoroughly research the potential risks and benefits of breast implants before undergoing surgery.
Discuss with Doctor: Have an open and honest conversation with your surgeon about your medical history, any autoimmune conditions, and your concerns about BII.
Monitor Symptoms: If you have breast implants, be vigilant about monitoring your health and report any unusual symptoms to your doctor promptly.
Consider Alternative Procedures: Explore other options for breast augmentation or reconstruction if you are concerned about the potential risks of implants.
How long does an outbreak last?
Since BII is not an infectious disease, the term "outbreak" is not applicable. The symptoms associated with BII can be chronic and persist as long as the implants are in place. Symptom duration can vary greatly from person to person. Symptoms may improve or resolve after implant removal (explant surgery), but this is not guaranteed.
How is it diagnosed?
There is no specific diagnostic test for BII. Diagnosis is based on:
Symptom Assessment: A doctor will evaluate the patient's symptoms and medical history.
Exclusion of Other Conditions: The doctor will rule out other medical conditions that could be causing the symptoms.
Patient History: A history of breast implants and the onset of symptoms after implantation is crucial.
There are no definitive blood tests or imaging studies that can definitively diagnose BII.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary. Some women experience symptoms shortly after implantation, while others may not develop symptoms for months or years. There is no predictable timeline. Symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly.
Important Considerations
Lack of Medical Consensus: It's important to understand that BII is not a formally recognized medical diagnosis. Some doctors may be skeptical about its existence.
Individual Variability: The severity and types of symptoms associated with BII can vary greatly from person to person.
Explant as a Treatment Option: Explant surgery is a personal decision. While many women report symptom improvement after explant, there is no guarantee of complete resolution.
Seek Support: If you believe you have BII, find a support group or online community where you can connect with other women who have similar experiences.
Consult Multiple Doctors: Seek opinions from multiple doctors, including surgeons and other specialists, to get a comprehensive evaluation.