Breast Pain: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Breast pain is a common condition among females, also known as mastalgia. Pain is generally classified as cyclical or non-cyclical. Cyclical pain means that the pain is associated with your menstrual cycle. Significant breast changes include:
- Puberty triggers breast evolution due to estrogen surge.
- Menstrual cycle hormones can lead to breast discomfort or pain.
- Breast pain, termed mastalgia, is common in women.
- Pain can be cyclical (linked to menstrual cycle) or non-cyclical.
- Cyclical pain decreases during or after a period.
- Non-cyclical pain, less common, has various causes.
- Mastitis can cause sharp pain or mild tingling, with breast tenderness or fullness.
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Get A Second OpinionCauses of Breast Pain
Hormonal changes:
Hormones like estrogen and progesterone can fluctuate during the menstrual cycle and cause breast swelling and pain.
- Estrogen impacts breast ducts.
- Progesterone affects breast glands.
- Pain worsens before menstruation or persists throughout the cycle.
- Pain may reduce or disappear after pregnancy or menopause.
Breast cysts
As a woman ages, her breasts undergo changes known as involution, the changes include
- Breast tissue is replaced by fat.
- Cysts and fibrous tissue growth.
- Known as fibrocystic changes.
- Breasts feel lumpy and sensitive.
- Common in upper and outer breast areas.
- Lumps can enlarge during the menstrual cycle.
Breastfeeding and Pain
Breastfeeding is a natural and nutritious way to feed your baby, but it is not without its pitfalls. You may experience breast pain while breastfeeding for many reasons.
Breastfeeding Conditions includes:
Mastitis:
Infection of milk ducts causing sharp pain, nipple issues, red streaks, fever, and chills. Treated with antibiotics.
Congestion (Engorgement):
Ingestion When the Breasts become too full, they become swollen, tight, and painful. If you are unable to feed the baby, express milk by hand.
Improper Latch:
If the baby does not latch properly, it can cause sore breasts and cracked or sore nipples. Seek help from a lactation consultant for a better latch.
Other Causes
Breast pain can have other causes like:
Diet:
Unhealthy diets high in fat and refined carbs may increase breast pain risk.
Extramammary Concerns:
Breast pain can stem from chest, arm, or back muscle irritation due to activities like raking or rowing.
Breast Size:
Larger or disproportionate breasts can cause neck and shoulder discomfort.
Breast Surgery:
In breast surgery, the Scar tissue formation post-surgery may lead to persistent pain.
Medications:
Antidepressants, hormone therapy, antibiotics, and heart disease meds can contribute to breast pain.
Smoking:
Smoking raises epinephrine levels in breast tissue, potentially causing soreness.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of breast pain begins with a physical exam. The healthcare provider examines the breasts for lumps or unusual changes. The chest and abdomen are also examined to rule out non-cyclical pain. Other tests carried out are:
Mammogram:
An imaging test is recommended for breast lumps.
Ultrasound:
Imaging test often done alongside mammograms to assess pain areas.
Biopsy:
This biopsy test Recommended for determining cyst or lump type and extent of damage in breast tissue.
Treatment
Depending on whether the breast pain is cyclical or non-cyclical, treatment can vary.
Treatment for cyclical pain may include:
- Wearing a support bra 24 hours a day when pain is worst
- Reducing your sodium intake
- Taking calcium supplements
- Taking oral contraceptives, which can help make your hormone levels more even
- Taking estrogen blockers, such as tamoxifen
- Taking pain relievers, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
Consult your doctor for tailored, non-cyclical breast pain treatment. Avoid supplement use without medical advice to prevent medication interactions or pre-existing conditions.
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Book an AppointmentWhen to visit a Doctor?
If your breast pain is sudden and is accompanied by chest pain, tingling, and numbness in your extremities, seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms may be a sign of a heart attack.
You should see your doctor if
- One or both breasts change in size or shape
- There is a discharge from any of the nipples
- There is a rash around the nipple
- There are dimples in the skin of the breasts
- In one of your armpits, you detect a lump or swelling
- You have pain in your armpits or breasts that are not related to your menstrual cycle
- You notice a change in the appearance of your nipple
- Note an area in your breast with thickened tissue or a lump
Prevention
Prevention and cure can be possible by taking the following steps:
- Eat a diet rich in fiber, as it decreases the production of estrogens and therefore reduces inflammation and pain in the breasts.
- Wear a supportive bra that fits you perfectly and also exercise wearing just a sports bra.
- Avoid caffeine and drink herbal teas instead.
- Limit alcohol consumption and stop smoking.
