Breast pain, also known as “breast pain,” accounts for nearly half of all breast-related complaints. However, before jumping to terrible conclusions (breast cancer!), please read this.
If you are experiencing pain, tenderness, or increased sensitivity to touch or pressure in one or both of your breasts, we can understand that you may be afraid and imagining the worst.
Well, let’s start by stating some facts. Breast pain alone is not an indication of breast cancer. And according to experts, mastitis is most likely caused by another cause.
Here are five very possible reasons why you might be experiencing tenderness or even increased tenderness in your breasts:
- Mastitis
Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that leads to inflammation, that is, abnormal swelling and redness of the breast.
In most cases, this occurs as a result of infection of the female breast ducts and occurs in breastfeeding mothers. While breastfeeding, bacteria from inside the baby’s mouth can enter a woman’s breast through her nipple.
Besides breast pain, mastitis can also cause symptoms such as:
general discomfort in the breasts.
a fever of 38.3 °C (101 °F) or higher.
chills, tiredness, or malaise.
Chest skin is hot or red.
Nipple discharge, or pus, is also common.If left untreated, mastitis can lead to abscess formation. Once diagnosed, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics (for infection) and NSAIDs (for pain, swelling, and fever).
2- Fiber
Finding a lump in your breast can be terrifying. However, not all tumors and lumps are cancerous. One such benign (read: non-cancerous) tumor is called a fibroid. It is more common in women under the age of 30.
The fibroids are very small but differ markedly from the surrounding breast tissue. Their edges are well-defined and can be moved under the skin. They look like little balls and can have a rubbery feel.
Although the exact cause of fibroids is not fully known, it is believed that the hormone ‘estrogen’ plays a role in the formation and development of these benign tumors. In addition, oral contraceptive use in women younger than 20 years of age has also been associated with a higher risk of fibroids.
These benign tumors can grow, especially if you are pregnant. Once they reach menopause, they often report shrinking fibroids. It is entirely possible for fibroids to go away on their own. However, sometimes, if they are widespread, they may require surgical removal.
3- CYST
A cyst in the breast may look like a lump, but it may actually be a small, harmless sac of breast tissue that is filled with fluid instead of cancerous or non-cancerous cells.
They can be found in one or both breasts and may also have signs and symptoms such as:
Breast tenderness or pain in the area of the breast cyst.
Nipple discharge can be clear, straw-colored, or even dark brown.
A smooth, easily moving mass with distinct borders or edges (indicating a benign nature).
Changes in breast tenderness and lump size associated with menstruation.
Simple, fluid-filled breast cysts are usually confirmed by ultrasound and rarely require treatment. If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe birth control or hormonal therapy. Surgery is recommended in rare cases.4- Menstruation
Periodic breast tenderness, or pain associated with a period, is the most common cause of breast pain. These symptoms are part of a group of symptoms, which are collectively called premenstrual syndrome or premenstrual syndrome.
Usually caused by women due to the natural monthly fluctuations in hormones, this pain usually occurs in both breasts. Estrogen causes the mammary ducts to swell while progesterone causes the mammary glands to swell – both events lead to breast tenderness. Women who experience breast pain caused by menstruation often describe breast pain or heaviness that radiates to the arm and armpit.
This pain is usually most severe right before your period and often stops once your period ends. It most often occurs in young women and usually goes away with menopause.
- Diet
Your diet may be the cause of breast pain. Foods that are high in sodium, caffeine, or high in fat are perfect examples.
Other foods to watch out for include:
• Peanuts, walnuts, almonds, and other dry foods
• Black tea, green tea, soda, and other caffeinated beverages
• chocolate
• Processed condiments or sauces
• French fries or salty popcorn
• Red meat and sausage
If you have not yet consulted a doctor, and despite limiting your intake of the above-mentioned foods, your breast pain persists, please see a doctor immediately.
Also, if you are experiencing frequent or severe breast pain or a breast lump has grown or changed, please see your doctor immediately. Stay healthy!
