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Understanding Breast Pain (Mastalgia)
Breast pain (mastalgia) is a common condition that can arise due to various causes. It may occur in one or both breasts and can range from mild to severe discomfort.
Breast pain is generally classified into two types:
- Cyclic Breast Pain: Pain associated with the menstrual cycle.
- Non-Cyclic Breast Pain: Pain not related to the menstrual cycle.
In some instances, the discomfort can escalate from mild to debilitating pain. While breast pain is a common concern among women, it is rarely a symptom of breast cancer. Most cases of breast pain are linked to hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, or benign breast conditions like fibrocystic changes.
However, if the pain is intense, persistent, or accompanied by additional symptoms such as a lump, nipple discharge, or changes in breast appearance, it is important to seek medical evaluation to exclude any underlying conditions, including breast cancer.
Causes of Breast Pain
Several factors can contribute to breast pain, including:
Hormonal Fluctuations: Discomfort or pain in both breasts can occur three to five days before the onset of your period due to the rise in oestrogen and progesterone levels just before your period. It usually subsides once menstruation begins.
Medications: Certain medications can cause breast pain as a side effect. If you suspect this is the case, consult your doctor regarding the medications you are taking. Some drugs associated with breast pain include hormone therapy, antidepressants, and antibiotics.
Chest Wall Pain: Sometimes, what feels like breast pain actually originates from the chest wall, which comprises the muscles, tissues, and bones surrounding and protecting the heart and lungs. Common causes include muscle strain, inflammation around the ribs, chest trauma, and bone fractures.
Breastfeeding: If you experience pain while breastfeeding, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They can offer appropriate guidance while helping you maintain your milk supply.
Infection: Women who are breastfeeding are more prone to developing a breast infection called mastitis, though it can occasionally occur in non-breastfeeding women as well. Symptoms may include pain, redness, and swelling in one breast, often accompanied by fever.
Trauma: Physical trauma, such as injuries from seat belts, accidents involving children or pets can lead to breast pain. This pain can also result from intercostal neuralgia due to respiratory infections or underlying pleuritic lesions. Additionally, conditions like gallbladder disease or ischaemic heart disease may present as intermittent chest pain, which could be mistaken for breast pain.
Large Breasts: The stretching of Cooper’s ligaments, which provide support to the breasts, can cause pain within the breast tissue. Additionally, the weight of large breasts can strain the muscles in the neck, back, and shoulders, leading to chronic pain in these areas.
Breast Cysts: A sudden, soft lump in the breast is often a cyst, which is typically harmless and resolves without treatment. However, any breast lump should be evaluated by a doctor.
Breast Cancer: Newly developed inflammatory breast cancer can cause pain, tenderness, firmness, and enlargement of the breast. The skin may feel warm and take on a thickened, orange-peel-like texture, known as “peau d’orange.”
Treating Breast Pain
In many cases, mild breast pain related to hormonal changes or normal breast development does not require treatment and may resolve on its own. However, if the pain is persistent, severe, or disrupts daily activities, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Breast Pain
Consider consulting a healthcare provider if you experience:
- Pain that is persistent or worsening.
- New or unexplained breast pain.
- Pain accompanied by additional symptoms such as lumps, nipple discharge, redness, swelling, or changes in the skin’s appearance over the breast.
- Pain that interferes with daily life.
Schedule an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
If you have concerns or questions about breast pain or any changes in your breast tissue, seeking medical advice is always the best course of action. Prioritising your breast health is crucial, as early detection and treatment can significantly impact your well-being.
The expert team of obstetrics and gynaecology specialists at Gleneagles Hospitals is available to provide the highest standard of care and support. Contact us today to book an appointment if you have concerns or queries about breast pain. We are committed to delivering personalised care tailored to your needs.
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