5 Common Causes of Breast Pain
Breast cancer has long been causing women across the world grief. But if caught at an early stage, it can be prevented from spreading and causing even more damage.
Sounds familiar?
As a result, women must check both breasts every month. You should ideally do it before getting in the shower. After a shower, your skin is already soft, and it’ll be easier to feel a lump with your skin temperature as warm as it is.
Although breast cancer is every woman’s worst nightmare, there are other causes of breast pain that we should be careful of as well.
Below, we’ll explain some of the most common causes of breast pain. Keep reading to learn more.
1. Physiological Causes
Breast pain is a common symptom experienced by women of all ages. It can range from mild aches to sharp pain and can last anywhere from a few hours to several days.
Physiological causes of breast pain include menstrual cycle changes and conditions such as fibrocystic breasts. Click here for more information regarding fibrocystic breasts. All of these causes are completely normal, and breast pain should not be a cause for alarm.
Consult a doctor for breast pain treatment if any of these issues become consistent or if the levels of discomfort become unbearable is recommended.
2. Hormonal Changes
Hormones, like estrogen and progesterone, can affect the development and size of the breasts. This can lead to cyclical breast pain, which occurs during ovulation or right before a period.
Hormonal changes can also lead to other breast-related discomforts, such as swelling, tenderness, and increased sensitivity.
3. Pregnancy & Nursing
It is normal for the breasts to feel heavy, tender, and painful, as the extra hormones can make the milk glands sensitive and swollen. This is typically referred to as “pregnancy breast pain” and should subside within a few weeks after delivery.
It can become more severe if the milk supply is overstimulated, like during nursing. Breastfeeding can also cause further tenderness and pain due to engorgement, from the milk not being removed from the breasts quickly enough.
4. Lifestyle Habits That Can Lead To Breast Pain
Several lifestyle habits can lead to breast pain. Smoking is one example, as nicotine and other chemicals found in cigarettes may affect the body’s hormone levels and lead to discomfort.
Too much caffeine or alcohol can lead to breast tenderness as well. Finally, vigorous exercise, tight clothing, and stress can also cause breast pain.
5. Medications
Medications such as certain contraceptives, antibiotics, or anti-depressants may also cause breast pain as a side effect. This type of breast pain is usually easily reversible and can be treated with different medications or lifestyle changes, such as stopping the medication or reducing stress levels.
Make an Appointment With Your Healthcare Today
Breast pain is a very common issue that affects many women. While it is often temporary, it can be persistent and cause stress or anxiety. Understanding common causes of breast pain can help women recognize when to seek medical attention and when these issues can be self-managed.
If you are experiencing any medical problems, make an appointment with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
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