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Mastalgia


About this topic


Breast pain is also known as mastalgia. It is common among women, but men may also have breast pain. It is any discomfort or pain in the breast as well as the areola and nipples. Breast pain is not a common sign of breast cancer. ‚  
There are three types of breast pain: ‚  
  • The pain may happen in the middle of the menstrual cycle. It will often involve both breasts and go away after a few days. This is cyclical pain.
  • Pain may not be related to the menstrual cycle and often only involves one breast. This is noncyclical pain.
  • The pain is felt in the breast. But, the cause of pain may be from other parts of the chest like muscles or worry. This is nonbreast pain. It is also called extramammary pain.

What are the causes?


Pain that happens during the menstrual cycle is often a result of hormones. For breast pain that happens at other times, there are many causes. ‚  
Hormones may still play a role in this pain. Infections and certain drugs may cause breast pain. Pregnancy, tumors, and chest muscle or bone problems may all cause pain. Sometimes, the pain is a result of injury or mental causes. In men, the breast pain may be a result of testicular cancer. ‚  

What can make this more likely to happen?


This condition is more likely to happen in women who are between 30 and 50 years of age. It is also more likely if a woman is in change-of-life or taking the pill or other hormones. ‚  

What are the main signs?


  • Aching or pinching pain on one or both breasts
  • Breast pain that goes away when you have your period
  • Redness if caused by an infection

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


Your doctor will do an exam and will see if your breasts are the same in size and shape. The doctor may feel your breast and armpits for lumps and pain to touch. Tell your doctor when you had your last menstrual period and if you have missed any. The doctor may order: ‚  
  • Mammogram ¢ ˆ ’ an x-ray of the breast
  • Breast ultrasound
  • MRI scan

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


  • The kind of care will depend on what is causing your breast pain.
  • Your doctor may give you a cream, gel, or ointment for pain relief. Use the cream on the painful part as ordered by your doctor.
  • Your doctor may suggest some ways to relax to help with stress. You may also be sent to a counselor.
  • If your pain is caused by a lump, your doctor may talk to you about surgery. The doctor may also talk to you about other therapy if the lump may be cancer.

What lifestyle changes are needed?


  • Avoid doing sports that may make the pain worse, like tennis, volleyball, or swimming.
  • Avoid activities that will strain your chest and arm muscles if the cause is muscle pulling.

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Help with pain
  • Fight an infection
  • Manage a cough
  • Block or change your hormone levels
  • Help with stress

Will there be any other care needed?


  • Use a warm compress on the painful breast to help relieve pain.
  • Wear a well-fitting bra. When doing strenuous activities, wear a sports bra that can properly support your breasts.
  • Keep track of when breast pain attacks. Write down when you have breast pain and when the pain is very bad. Also, note what other signs you have.

What problems could happen?


  • Breast mass
  • Breast cancer
  • Hormonal imbalance
  • Lung problems

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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