Mastodynia - Breast Pain, What It Means And How To Treat It

Types of pain

Cyclical-Periodic mastodynia

It occurs in about ¾ of women. The pain is typically worse before the expected menstruation and disappears with the onset of the period. Also, it can appear, but with different intensity, throughout the cycle. It is usually felt in both breasts. Because of this relationship of pain with the monthly cycle, mastalgia is probably due to the hormones that regulate the monthly period. The pain is more severe in young women, but has also been seen in postmenopausal women taking hormone therapy (HRT).

Non-cyclical mastodynia

It is not associated with menstruation and occurs less frequently than periodic mastodynia. Typically, it occurs in women over 40 and is found in only one breast. It can be associated with the presence of a cyst, fibroadenoma, inflammation in the breast, or even from a poorly fitted bra.

• Mastodynia or breast tenderness during puberty in boys – is also commonly associated with gynecomastia (gland enlargement in boys) and is due to hormonal changes during this period of rapid growth.
• Mastodynia in case of inflammation

This is called mastitis and presents with breast pain, redness and swelling as well as increased temperature of the gland. Mastitis is more common in breastfeeding women. It is caused by germs entering the milk ducts from the infant's mouth. Its treatment must be immediate to avoid complications.

Mastitis that occurs in a non-breastfeeding woman needs investigation by a specialist physician.

Other possible causes of pain

• Fibrocystic mastopathy;
• Premenopausal syndrome;
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• Beginning of puberty or menopause;
• Shingles;
• Estrogen therapy;
• Medicines such as spironolactone, digoxin, chlorpromazine, methyldopa;
• Inflammation;
• Breast trauma;
• Breast cancer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastodynia is a very common symptom that can disrupt a woman's daily life and causes fear in many, because it can be linked to breast cancer. Mastodynia is rarely the only symptom of breast cancer. It is important to have a preventive annual breast check and, above all, to have a good consultation with your doctor about issues that concern you. Find out about breast self-examination and don't forget that prevention saves lives!!