What You Need to Know About Breast Pain

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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Causes 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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When 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Does breast pain always indicate cancer?

The presence of breast pain or cysts does not indicate cancer. The tumors present in the cyst can also be benign. If the pain is persistent and localized, see a doctor for a more detailed diagnosis.

Does caffeine cause breast pain?

Caffeine intake can cause hormonal changes that ease discomfort.

When does breast pain stop during pregnancy?

Breast pain usually starts from the third or fourth week of pregnancy. This pain can be constant during the first trimester and go away.

What should I eat to reduce breast pain?

Estrogen is associated with breast pain, and a diet low in fat, especially low in saturated fat, can lower the level of estrogen and improve breast pain and lumps. Avoid meat and dairy products and eat more fish, tofu, and fat-free dairy products.

What type of breast pain is normal?

There are two types of breast pain: cyclic and non-cyclic. Cyclic pain comes and goes with your menstrual cycle, often occurring about two weeks before your period starts. Noncyclic breast pain may result from trauma, previous breast surgery, or other factors, and the exact cause may not always be identified.

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