The majority of women experience breast pain at some point in their life. Typically, treating breast pain is easy; however, this kind of pain can also be a symptom of a more serious issue. Depending on the cause of your breast pain, your doctor may recommend a mammogram. You can get the help you need when you visit your doctor if your breast pain persists. The following are common causes of breast pain:
Hormonal Fluctuations
Breast pain commonly occurs due to hormonal fluctuations. A few days before your menstrual period, your breasts can be sore and this stops when the period begins. This has to do with increased estrogen and progesterone, which cause your breast to swell and become tender. If you become pregnant, the soreness can remain during your first trimester when the production of hormones in your body ramps up.
A Breast Injury
A breast injury can occur due to an accident such as when you play a sport or due to breast surgery. Injury-related breast pain is described as sharp and shooting. Your breast will be tender for several days or weeks following breast trauma.
Breast Cancer
Breast pain is rarely associated with breast cancer; however, it can happen. This occurs due to inflammatory breast cancer. Usually, the symptoms of this disease come on abruptly and progress rapidly.
Breast Cyst
A cyst is a tender lump that appears in the breast. It is dangerous and usually does not require treatment since it may disappear on its own. However, it is still essential to get your breast lump assessed by your doctor. A mammogram, aspiration, or ultrasound may be recommended to diagnose a breast cyst. Also, a cyst is addressed by draining the fluid from it. If the cyst doe not bother you at all, you may need treatment.
Medication Side Effect
Breast pain can also occur as a side effect of certain medications. Talk to your doctor about these medications and symptoms. Medications that can cause breast pain include water pills, chlorpromazine, digitalis, hormone therapies, and oxymetholone.
Breastfeeding
Sometimes, breastfeeding can cause breast pain. Specifically, you may experience things such as painful nipples, nipple soreness, and tingling sensation while nursing. If your breast pain persists, consult your doctor or speak with a lactation consultant.
An Unsupportive Bra
Your breasts are connected to your chest wall through ligaments. These ligaments can become overstretched and cause pain without proper bra support. As a result, you will experience achy, sore breasts.
