Factors That Cause Breast Pain

Breast pain can be caused by a number of factors. Some are more common than others, and can be treated with simple dietary changes. Some medications are also helpful in relieving the pain. Some breast pain sufferers report that stress is a significant factor. Luckily, stress can be treated with relaxation techniques, and you can also change your diet.

Some hormonal medications, such as oral birth control pills and some infertility medications, can cause breast pain. For example, estrogen therapy after menopause is commonly associated with breast tenderness. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have also been linked to breast pain. But more studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of these treatments.

A woman’s breast pain may also be caused by trauma. A breast injury can result in a sharp, stabbing pain. It can also radiate to the arm. This type of pain is known as referred pain. It may occur as a result of a large impact to the breast or an infection in the breast. Other causes of breast pain are entrapped nerves and hormonal imbalances.

Many women experience breast pain before or during their period. This typically goes away on its own, but if it interferes with your daily life, you should see a doctor. Women who are taking hormonal birth control pills should check with their doctor if they are experiencing severe pain. Some women may have to change their birth control pills or adjust their hormone therapy. Other remedies may help reduce breast pain, including cutting back on caffeine.

Breast pain can also be cyclical, which is linked to hormonal changes in the body. This type of pain affects both the inner and outer breasts, and can be associated with changes in the menstrual cycle. It can be accompanied by pain, redness, and even nipple discharge.

A woman with breast pain should consult a physician to make sure that the pain is not cancer. Women with a history of breast cancer should have a mammogram if they suspect there is an abnormality. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out a cancer.

If the pain is accompanied by redness or discharge, it may be a sign of infection. In such cases, it is important to treat the problem early, as an infection could worsen. Breast pain can also be an indication that a bacterial infection has developed. A doctor can prescribe antibiotics to reduce the inflammation and treat the pain.