As a woman, you may have experienced breast pain that occurs when you press or touch your breasts. This can be an uncomfortable symptom that may be alarming, however, it’s usually nothing to worry about. Breast pain, also known as mastalgia, is a common complaint among women and can range from mild to severe. It is often caused by a variety of factors, including anatomical, hormonal, and environmental causes.
Highlights:
- When pressing the breast, pain can arise and there are various possible causes, such as anatomy-related, hormonal variations, infections, medications, breast cancer, injury, inflammatory breast disease, breast surgery, stress, and fibrocystic breast disease.
- To deal with the discomfort, it is essential to determine the source of it. If the pain continues or gets worse, it is important to speak to a gynecologist to discuss potential treatments.
It is perfectly normal to be concerned if you experience breast pain, especially if it is accompanied by discharge or any other physical changes.
The good news is: Breast pain may not be a sign of a serious medical condition.
What are the 10 Reasons of Breast Pain?
From hormonal changes to physical trauma, there are several reasons why a person may experience breast pain when they press it.
1. Anatomical Causes of Breast Pain:
Breast pain can be caused by a variety of anatomical issues. Common causes of breast pain include:
- Hormonal changes
- Musculoskeletal problems
- Breast diseases such as mastitis or cysts
Breast pain can also be caused by the use of certain medications or activities that involve repetitive motion, such as running or weight-lifting.
In some cases, breast pain can be caused by pressing on the breast, known as pressure-related pain. Although this type of breast pain is usually not serious, it can be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition, so it is important to consult with a gynecologist if it persists.
2. The Role of Hormonal Changes:
Breast pain is a common symptom among women of all ages due to hormonal changes. Hormonally-induced breast pain can be cyclical, meaning it fluctuates with the menstrual cycle, or non-cyclical, meaning it does not vary with the menstrual cycle.
Symptoms of breast pain: It includes aching, burning, stabbing, or tingling sensations in the breast tissue, and pain that may worsen when the breasts are pressed. The cause of breast pain is not always known, but it can be caused by hormone changes, breast disease, or even a side effect of certain medications.
Treatment for breast pain: It can include lifestyle changes, such as wearing a supportive bra, avoiding caffeine and reducing stress. Some medications may be prescribed to help reduce the symptoms.
3. Infections- Another Potent Cause:
Infections are one of the most common causes of breast pain, such as mastitis or an abscess. Other causes include hormonal changes, breast surgery, muscle strain, certain medications, and certain clothing or bras.
If the pain is severe and persistent, it is recommended to see a doctor in order to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Read Also: Signs your Breasts are Growing!
4. Certain Medications:
Breast pain is a common symptom experienced by many women. It can range from a dull ache to a sharp pain and can occur in one or both breasts. In some cases, breast pain can be caused by certain medications.
Women should always consult their doctor before starting any new medication, as certain drugs can cause breast pain and other side effects.
Note: If you experience breast pain, it is important to talk to your top qualified gynecologist to help determine the cause and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
5. Breast Cancer:
Breast pain can affect up to 70 percent of women during certain stages of their life cycle. Breast pain is not necessarily an indicator of breast cancer, but it is important to be aware of the potential symptoms of the disease.
- Women who experience breast pain should monitor the area for any changes and should seek medical advice if the pain persists.
- Breast tenderness can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, excess weight, breast infection, and breast cancer.
- Women should be aware of any changes in the breast tissue, including lumps or swelling, and should contact their doctor if they have any concerns.
Also Read: Benign Breast Disease.
6. Breast Injury:
Breast pain and injury can be a concerning concern for many women. The sensation of pain or tenderness in the breast area can be caused by a variety of factors.
If you experience pain or tenderness in your breasts that is aggravated when you press or touch them, it is important to visit your doctor for a full examination and to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Your doctor will be able to offer advice on the best course of treatment for your individual case.
7. Inflammatory Breast Disease:
Inflammatory Breast Disease (IBD) is a rare form of breast cancer that is characterized by redness, swelling, and tenderness of the breast, as well as a feeling of warmth. It is important to note that IBD does not always present with a lump, and that the breast may be extremely tender to the touch.
In many cases, the breast will hurt when pressed, and the skin may become thickened and pitted. Treatment for IBD includes both surgery and medication. Early diagnosis and treatment is key for a successful outcome, so it is important to seek medical attention if the breast is painful or swollen.
8. Breast Surgery:
Breast pain is a common condition that can affect women of all ages. Breast surgery can be used to address certain types of breast pain, such as cysts, fibrocystic changes, or lumps. Surgery may also be used to reduce the size of the breasts or to improve the appearance of the breasts.
However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause of the pain and determine if surgery is the appropriate treatment option.
9. Role of Stress:
Stress can manifest itself in many ways, one of which is breast pain. When a woman is under a lot of stress, it can cause her breasts to become tender, sore, or even hurt when pressed. Managing stress is an important part of managing breast pain.
Stress-relieving activities like yoga, meditation, or even taking a long walk can help to reduce the intensity of the pain. .
10. Fibrocystic Breast Disease:
Fibrocystic breast disease is a condition that causes non-cancerous changes in the breast tissue. It can cause the breasts to feel lumpy, tender, and even painful. The pain can be felt when the breast is pressed, usually during certain times of the month because of hormonal changes.
It is important to talk to your gynecologist if you experience any pain or changes in your breasts so they can rule out other possible causes. Treatment options may include medications to relieve breast pain, lifestyle changes to reduce stress, or surgery to remove a lump.
Conclusion
There are many potential causes for why does my breast hurt when i press it, including anatomical causes, hormonal changes, infections, medications, breast cancer, breast injury, inflammatory breast disease, breast surgery, stress, and fibrocystic breast disease. Understanding the cause of your breast pain can help you to take the appropriate steps to address it and ensure you remain healthy. If your breast pain persists or worsens, it is important to speak to your gynecologist to discuss possible treatments.
FAQs:
1. Do breast tumors hurt when you push on them?
2. How do you self examine your breasts?
Look at your breasts and feel each breast, armpit, and collarbone. This is easiest to do by placing soapy hands under each breast and under your armpits while taking a shower or bath. You can also look at your breasts in a mirror. Keep your arms at your side and lift them up.