Breast pain is a common condition experienced by almost every woman. The pain can be caused by various things, from the menstrual cycle to an illness. Treatment also needs to be adjusted to the cause.
Breast pain or mastalgia usually appears on the outside of the upper part of the breast and can radiate to the armpits and arms.
The pain that appears can be described as a stabbing pain or a tight feeling in the breast. This kind of pain usually occurs for several days, for example before or during menstruation.
Causes of Breast Pain
There are several known causes that can trigger the appearance of breast pain, including:
1. Menstrual cycle
Pain in the breasts related to the menstrual cycle usually appears 3 days before menstruation and will improve after menstruation is complete. However, the intensity of pain that appears can vary from month to month.
2. Breast inflammation
Generally, mastitis or inflammation of the breast tissue experienced by breastfeeding women. This condition causes the breast to feel sore and swollen. In addition, infections such as breast abscesses can also cause breast pain.
3. Lump on the breast
Lumps that are benign or noncancerous can appear in the breast and trigger breast pain. One example is fibroadenoma which is thought to be related to the activity of the hormone estrogen.
4. Injuries to other body parts
Breast pain can also be caused by injuries to other parts of the body, such as the muscles around the chest, shoulders, or back. Injuries that occur around the breast area can have an impact on the breast to cause pain.
5. Drugs
Some types of drugs, such as hormonal birth control, antidepressants, and drugs to treat heart disease are also known to cause breast pain.
6. Bust Size
For women who have large breasts, the possibility of experiencing breast pain is also greater. In addition, pain in the neck, shoulders, and back can also accompany breast pain caused by large breasts.
7. Breast surgery
Breast surgery procedures are also known to cause breast pain. The pain after breast surgery usually lasts longer depending on the patient's body condition.
In addition, please note that certain types of food can also trigger the appearance of pain in the breast, for example foods high in fat and carbohydrates.
How to Overcome Breast Pain
Actually, breast pain can go away on its own. However, keep in mind that the pain can come back.
There are several things you can do to relieve breast pain, including:
- Use the right size bra
- Reduce foods that contain saturated fat
- Reduce caffeine intake
- Stop smoking habit
- Use warm or cold compresses to relieve pain
If the pain still does not subside, you can consult a doctor, especially if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. The doctor will give you painkillers, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin to relieve the pain.
Various Special Conditions to Watch Out for
Although breast pain is generally harmless, there are some conditions that you need to be aware of, such as:
- Changes in breast shape or size
- Discharge with blood from the nipples
- Rash around the nipple or a change in the shape of the nipple
- Swelling or lump with pain in the armpit
- The surface of the breast looks like it is pulled from the inside
- Symptoms of infection, such as swelling, redness, or a burning sensation in the breast accompanied by fever
Pain in the breast is a natural thing to happen, especially before the menstrual cycle. However, if the pain persists for more than 2 weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms, don't hesitate to consult a doctor to get the right treatment.