Gyncecomastia is the medical term for the growth of male breast tissue. It is due to a hormonal imbalance involving the ratio of estrogen to testosterone. The breasts often become swollen and tender as they enlarge beyond normal size. Gyncecomastia may be present in one or both breasts. It should not be confused with excess fat tissue in the breast due to obesity.
Normal Causes
There are three times in life when gynecomastia is considered normal. The first is during the newborn period due to hormones associated with the pregnancy. The male infant may appear to have breast enlargement that resolves in a number of weeks. The male experiencing puberty may also notice breast tissue growth for up to three years. Again, this is due to hormonal changes. Finally, a man in his sixth, seventh or eighth decade of life may have gynecomastia due to changing hormone levels. Mayo Clinic explains that this affects over a quarter of the elderly male population.
Abnormal Causes
Several other conditions can lead to gynecomastia. These include thyroid disorders, liver disease, malnutrition, glandular tumors, hypogonadism, kidney failure, testicle abnormalities or disorder and testicular trauma or radiation exposure. Drugs can also cause this condition. Common culprits include hormonal agents, ulcer medicines, cancer chemotherapy, anxiety medicines, HIV/AIDS drugs, antidepressants and blood pressure medications. Alcohol and illegal drugs can cause male breast enlargement.
Treatments
Most cases of gynecomastia resolve on their own but treatments are available when needed. Medications used include breast cancer drugs, antiestrogens and synthetic testosterone. If these are not effective, surgery may be performed. The surgeon may perform a mastectomy, liposuction or reconstructive plastic surgery. Treatment of the condition that initially caused the gynecomastia often corrects the enlargement. If it is drug-related, discontinuation of its use is usually effective.
Self-Care
If gynecomastia is caused by alcohol abuse, performance-enhancing drug use or illegal drug use, it is important that the behavior be stopped. Addiction counseling should be sought if needed. The U.S. National Library of Medicine explains that over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken for the discomfort associated with the swollen tissue. They also recommend cold compresses to the breasts with physician approval. Cold compresses should be used two or three times a day for up to 15 minutes.
Warning
Male breast cancer can be mistaken for gynecomastia. It may appear in one or both breasts. For this reason, any growth in the adult male breast tissue should be evaluated by a physician.
