Breast Pain – 5 Common Causes

Breast pain occurs when the breasts become more sensitive to pressure and touch. These can be sudden and abnormal, but in many cases they are a symptom of normal processes, such as menstruation and pregnancy.

The sensation of pain may affect one or both breasts and may extend to the armpits. Breast pain varies in intensity, and there are many factors that can cause it. If your breasts hurt too, don’t hesitate to read on!

5 possible causes for breast pain

1. Mastitis

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breasts and is caused by obstruction of the milk ducts. Often this problem is the consequence of an infection. In addition to pain, the patient will have the following symptoms:

• Inflammation
• General discomfort
• Fever
• Breast tenderness
• Redness
• The feeling that the breasts have stiffened

Mastitis can also be caused by drying and cracking of the nipple (nipple), which promotes the penetration of pathogens into the breasts. A weakened immune system or childbirth can also expose a woman to harmful microorganisms that cause mastitis.

To treat this type of pain, it is essential to follow the instructions given by your doctor. If you have just given birth, make sure your baby is feeding properly. To prevent the nipples from cracking, use a milk pump every two hours and apply a moisturizer.

2. Cysts

Many women develop cysts in their breasts. These benign tumor growths usually occur due to a hormonal imbalance and consist of small bags filled with fluid.

Cysts can occur when the breasts change in size. Although the exact cause is not always easy to detect, it is certain that breast pain caused by cysts can be very intense.

If you suspect that you have a cyst in your breasts, it is essential to consult a doctor immediately, so that you are prescribed an appropriate drug treatment. Most women manage to eliminate this discomfort without resorting to surgery.

However, if the cyst has advanced a lot, your doctor will prescribe a more advanced treatment. However, you do not have to worry, complications are rare. Also, cysts rarely develop into malignant tumors.

To relieve breast pain caused by cysts, avoid eating foods such as chocolate and soft drinks. Last but not least, include vitamin E and B supplements in your daily diet.

3. Fibroma

Fibroids are benign tumors completely distinct from cysts. These are cell formations that grow rapidly, making up an excessive mass of tissue. In general, fibroids are rigid.

A benign fibroid (fibroadenoma) comes in the form of a tiny swelling, with a width of only a few millimeters. The characteristics of these tumor masses are affected by:

• Hormonal activity
• Menstrual cycle
• Pregnancy
• Lactation

From time to time, fibroids may grow in excess, in which case they must be removed by surgery. In general, however, they can be removed with appropriate drug treatment.

4. Improper nutrition

Breast pain can be caused by certain foods, including those high in fat, sodium or caffeine. To feel better, avoid the following foods:

• Chocolate
• Dried fruits (nuts, hazelnuts, almonds)
• Caffeinated beverages (soft drinks, black tea, green tea)
• Fast food
• Salted popcorn and french fries
• Processed sauces
• Red meat and sausages

If your chest pain continues despite the fact that you have reduced the consumption of the foods listed above, seek the advice of a specialist. Don’t forget to examine your breasts every month.

5. Menstruation

Menstruation can cause various symptoms, including breast pain. The breasts are a very sensitive area of ​​the body and, a few days before the start of menstruation, it is possible that they will start to hurt.

Many women report unbearable pain at the slightest touch of their breasts. At this point, even clothes can become uncomfortable. The main cause of this symptom is represented by hormones and changes that take place in a woman’s body during menstruation (inflammation, fatigue, breast pain, etc.).

Estrogen and progesterone are the two hormones that act during menstruation, they have the role of preparing a woman’s body for pregnancy. Among other things, estrogen and progesterone cause premenstrual and menstrual symptoms such as inflammation of the breasts, breast pain and weight gain.

To avoid any unpleasant symptoms during or before menstruation, your doctor may prescribe birth control pills, birth control pills. You can also ask your gynecologist to install an intrauterine device.

Another useful option is to reduce your intake of caffeine, salt, animal fats and dairy products before menstruation.

As you can see, breast pain can be caused by several factors. Every woman is different, so you don’t have to assume that the experiences of your friends or relatives are the same as yours.

To have no doubts, consult a doctor. Under no circumstances should you take medication without the advice of a specialist. Although some over-the-counter medications may help you feel better at the moment, they will no longer have the expected effect if taken long-term.