The medical term for pain in the breasts is mastalgia. If you've got it, you're not alone--the Mayo Clinic says that 7 out of 10 women experience breast pain sometime during their lifetime. Although breast pain isn't generally an indication of breast cancer, it's still something that should be diagnosed by a doctor.
Cyclic Breast Pain
Some breast pain is normal; many women experience swelling, soreness and tenderness in the breasts each month just before they begin their menstrual periods, says the Mayo Clinic. When breast pain happens regularly and prior to menstruation then is relieved, it's likely cyclic breast pain as a result of those hormonal changes and nothing to worry about. However, breast pain that is unrelated to menstruation may also occur for other reasons; this is called noncyclic breast pain.
Causes of Breast Pain
Breast pain can occur for many different reasons, including having large breasts, changes in the hormones (during menopause or pregnancy) cysts or injury to the breasts, or an abnormal level of fatty acids in breast cells, says the Mayo Clinic. Breast pain may also be a side effect of taking certain medications, particularly hormones like birth control pills, estrogen therapy or drugs taken for infertility. Some antidepressant medications (particularly SSRIs) may also result in breast pain.
Getting a Diagnosis
If you're suffering from breast pain and it's not just your normal monthly tenderness brought on by your period, it's best to get to a doctor to have your breasts checked out. He'll perform a breast exam to check for any abnormalities and may also order an ultrasound, biopsy of any lumps and/or a mammogram to diagnose the source of breast pain.
Treating Breast Pain
Treatment depends on the cause of the breast pain. It could be a simple fix like stopping or switching the medication that you're on if medication is to blame. Your doctor may even recommend that you wear a better, more supportive bra. Medication, including tamoxifen, danazol or bromocriptine, may be prescribed to alleviate cyclic breast pain.
What You Can Do
There are some steps you can take at home to ease breast pain and make yourself a more comfortable. The Mayo Clinic suggests trying an over-the-counter pain-relieving drug, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Lowering your fat intake and reducing how much caffeine you consume may also provide some relief from breast pain. An ice pack or heating pad may also soothe breast pain, while practicing relaxation techniques can help to manage anxiety and pain.
