Breast pain, also known as mastalgia, is a common condition that affects women of all ages. It can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from hormonal changes to injury or infection. While breast pain is rarely a sign of breast cancer, it is important to understand the reasons why your breasts may be hurting so that you can seek appropriate medical attention if necessary, according to Healthline.
In this article, we will explore the reasons why your breasts may be hurting and what you can do to alleviate the pain.
Hormonal Changes
This can occur during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. During these times, your body undergoes hormonal changes that can cause your breasts to become sore and tender.
During your menstrual cycle, your estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate, causing your breast tissue to swell and become more sensitive. This can result in breast pain, which usually occurs before your period and subsides once your period starts.
Pregnancy also causes hormonal changes, as your body prepares to nourish a growing fetus. This can cause your breasts to become sore and tender, especially during the first trimester.
Menopause is another time when your hormones can fluctuate, which can cause breast pain. As your body produces less estrogen, your breast tissue can become less dense and more fatty, which can lead to discomfort.
Breast Cysts
Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form in your breast tissue. They are very common, especially in women between the ages of 35 and 50. Breast cysts can cause breast pain, especially if they are large or if they rupture.
Breast cysts are usually benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, if you notice a lump or if your breast pain is severe, you should see your doctor to rule out any serious conditions.
Breast Trauma
Breast trauma can also cause breast pain. This can occur from an injury, such as a fall or a blow to the breast, or from repeated pressure or friction, such as from a poorly fitting bra.
Breast trauma can cause bruising, swelling, and pain. If you experience breast pain after an injury, you should see your doctor to rule out any serious conditions.
Breast Infection
Breast infection, also known as mastitis, is an infection of the breast tissue that can cause breast pain. This condition is most common in women who are breastfeeding, as bacteria can enter the breast tissue through a cracked or sore nipple.
Breast infection can cause breast pain, redness, and swelling. If you are breastfeeding and experience these symptoms, you should see your doctor as soon as possible, as untreated mastitis can lead to an abscess.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a serious condition that can cause breast pain. While breast pain is rarely a sign of breast cancer, it is important to be aware of any changes in your breast tissue and to see your doctor if you notice any lumps, changes in breast size or shape, or nipple discharge.
Breast cancer can cause breast pain, but it is usually not the only symptom. Other symptoms of breast cancer can include a lump in the breast, changes in breast size or shape, nipple discharge, and skin changes on the breast.
Medications
Certain medications can also cause breast pain. Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy, can cause breast pain as a side effect.
Other medications, such as antidepressants and blood pressure medications, can also cause breast pain. If you are taking any medications and experience breast pain, you should speak with your doctor to determine if the medication is causing the pain.
Content created and supplied by: Latest5 (via Opera News )
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