Do you also have breast pain? (Mastalgia) Let's talk about this!

Do you often feel pain, heaviness, or just a strange tightness in your breasts? This is something that affects many women, and sometimes men, and can be a little scary. But the good news is that most of the time, it's not something to be afraid of, especially not breast cancer. Let's take a look at what breast pain, or ``Mastalgia'' in medical terms, really is, why it happens, and what we can do about it.

Simply put, what is this breast pain?

Breast pain is a very common condition that can affect anyone. While this pain may feel like a slight tightness for some, for others it can feel like a stabbing, squeezing pain. This type of pain that occurs frequently can interfere with your daily activities.

This can be caused by hormonal changes in our body (especially during menstruation), wearing an ill-fitting bra, or certain infections. The main cause of breast pain in men is a condition called ``Gynecomastia''. Importantly, more than 90% of breast pain is not caused by breast cancer.

There are two main types of breast pain:

Let's talk about this pain by dividing it into two main parts. Then it will be easier to understand what kind of pain you have.

What exactly are the symptoms?

Symptoms vary slightly depending on whether the pain is cyclical or non-cyclical.

• In case of cyclic pain:
• The breasts hurt and become sensitive when touched.
• I feel a little swollen.
• Feeling heavier than usual.
• Sometimes this pain can spread to the armpit and shoulder.

• In case of noncyclic pain:
• Pain in one place in one breast.
• A sharp, stabbing pain.
• There is a burning sensation, a burning sensation.

The question on everyone's mind: Could this be breast cancer?

This is the thing that scares many people. But as we've said before, breast pain is often not a symptom of cancer. A person with breast cancer can have pain, but other symptoms are more common.

Pain caused by a cancerous tumor can be a constant, localized pain. However, watch out for other symptoms, such as:

• Skin changes: The skin of the breast takes on a dimpled appearance, like an orange peel.
• Itching and warmth: The skin is red, itchy, and feels warm.
• Nipple changes: Nipple inversion or discharge (other than milk) from the nipple.
• A lump or tumor: A lump that can be felt in the hand, painful or painless.

If any of these symptoms are accompanied by pain, see your doctor immediately.

Why do breasts hurt like this? What are other reasons?

Although the main cause of cyclical pain, which we discussed earlier, is hormonal changes, there are many other causes that can affect non-cyclical pain.

• Medications taken: Birth control pills, hormone therapy, certain antidepressants (SSRIs).
• Pregnancy:Breast pain is common during pregnancy due to the increase in hormone levels in the body, such as estrogen.
• Infections: Infections in the breasts, such as mastitis, can cause severe pain, redness, and fever.
• Non-cancerous tumors: Fluid-filled cysts or fibroadenomas that form in the breasts.
• Chest wall pain: Sometimes the pain doesn't come from the breast, but from the underlying chest muscles or cartilage. Costochondritis is one such condition.
• Previous surgeries: Pain can occur due to scar tissue that forms after breast surgery.
• Lifestyle: Smoking, excessive coffee consumption (caffeine), high stress, and high-fat diets can also cause breast pain to increase in some people.

What are the occasions when you should see a doctor?

Usually, there is nothing to be concerned about when it comes to menstrual pain. However, it is important to seek medical advice in the following cases:

What can be done to treat this pain?

When you see a doctor, he or she will ask about your symptoms, perform a breast exam, and if necessary, order tests like a mammogram or ultrasound scan. Once the cause is found, treatment will be determined. However, there are also things you can do at home.

Medical treatment

• Painkillers: You can get relief from common painkillers like `(Paracetamol)` (e.g. Panadol) and `(Ibuprofen)` (e.g. Brufen).
• Special medications: If the pain is very severe, the doctor may prescribe special medications like `(Danazol)` or `(Tamoxifen).` However, these should only be used under medical advice as they have side effects.

Things you can do at home and lifestyle changes

• Choose the right bra: Wear a bra that fits your body well and provides good support. It is especially important to use a ``Sports bra'' when exercising. Since our body size changes over time, always check that you are wearing the right size.
• Warm compresses: Applying a hot water bottle or a cloth to the painful area can provide relief.
• Cut down on caffeine and fat: Try cutting down on things like coffee, tea, chocolate, and fatty foods. Some people notice a big difference.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking can also affect breast pain.
• Vitamins and supplements: Some studies have found that taking vitamin E and magnesium supplements can help reduce some menstrual pain. Some people also use an oil called Evening Primrose Oil. But you should definitely talk to your doctor before starting any of these.
• Reduce stress: Improve mental well-being through things like yoga and meditation. Reducing stress can also reduce physical pain.