Understanding Gynecomastia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Gynecomastia Symptoms

The symptoms of gynecomastia can vary from person to person. Common signs include:

• Swollen Breast Tissue: Enlarged glandular tissue in one or both breasts.
• Tenderness: Sensitivity or pain in the breast area.
• Nipple Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity or discomfort around the nipples.
• Lumps: Palpable lumps or nodules under the skin.

Gynecomastia Causes

Both malnutrition and refeeding have been shown to create a hormonal environment that can lead to gynecomastia. Similarly, cirrhosis of the liver disrupts normal hormonal metabolism and can lead to gynecomastia.

Disorders of the male sex organs (testicles) can cause decreased testosterone production and relatively high estrogen levels, leading to gynecomastia. These disorders can be genetic, such as Klinefelter syndrome, or gained due to trauma, infection, reduced blood flow, or aging. Testicular cancers can also secrete hormones that cause gynecomastia. Other conditions that are associated with an altered hormonal environment in the body and that may be associated with gynecomastia are chronic kidney failure and hyperthyroidism. In rare cases, cancers other than testicular tumors can produce hormones that can cause gynecomastia.

Medications that can make breasts enlarge in men include:

• Anabolic steroids
• Some antibiotics
• Some medicines for ulcers
• Chemotherapy
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Diazepam (Valium) and some other medications to treat anxiety
• Some HIV medicines, including efavirenz, also known as Sustiva
• Antiandrogens, commonly prescribed for patients with cancer or an enlarged prostate
• Some heart medications, including calcium channel blockers and digoxin
• Tea tree oil and lavender products, used in creams and shampoos, can affect

Gynecomastia Risk factors

• Men who use anabolic steroids regularly
• People with a gender identity disorder
• Congenital disorders can increase the risk of gynecomastia, such as Klinefelter syndrome
• Men with a family history of gynecomastia are at higher risk of developing the condition
• Certain medications that reduce testosterone synthesis and alter the action of testosterone
• Men with kidney failure may develop the risk of gynecomastia
• Use of medications that increase estrogen levels or activate estrogen receptors
• Men with hyperthyroidism have a higher risk of developing gynecomastia
• Excessive alcohol consumption that leads to cirrhosis of the liver can increase the risk of contracting the condition

Gynecomastia Diagnosis

• A Blood test: A blood sample is taken to check the levels of testosterone and estrogen. Besides, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and free thyroxine levels are obtained to check if the patient has hyperthyroidism
• Mammography: In this procedure, low levels of X-rays are used to examine the breasts for signs of breast cancer.
• Imaging tests: Your doctor would recommend imaging procedures such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to obtain clear images of the mammary tissues and glands.
• Testicular ultrasound: A testicular ultrasound is performed to produce images of the testicles and surrounding tissues. This helps rule out cancerous tumors and growths.
• Biopsy: A sample of breast tissue is isolated and examined under a microscope to rule out certain conditions, such as cancer.

Gynecomastia Treatment

Treatment options for gynecomastia vary depending on the severity of the condition and its underlying causes. Options include:

• Medication: In some cases, medications can help address the hormonal imbalances causing gynecomastia.
• Lifestyle Changes: Improving overall health through diet and exercise may help reduce symptoms, particularly if they are related to obesity or drug use.
• Gynecomastia Surgery: For persistent cases or those causing significant distress, gynecomastia surgery may be considered. This procedure involves removing excess breast tissue to achieve a flatter and more contoured chest.

Gynecomastia Surgical Treatment

Gynecomastia surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is often recommended for individuals with severe or persistent gynecomastia. The procedure typically involves:

• Consultation: A thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if surgery is appropriate.
• Surgical Procedure: The removal of excess breast tissue through liposuction or direct excision.
• Recovery: Post-surgery recovery involves following specific care instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.

Gynecomastia Prevention

Sometimes choosing a healthy lifestyle can prevent the risk of underlying conditions that lead to gynecomastia. Some of them include:

• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can increase the chances of liver cirrhosis.
• Do not self-medicate, as some medications may contain high levels of estrogen, which can lead to gynecomastia.
• Illegal substances such as methamphetamine, amphetamines, androgens, and marijuana should be avoided.

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