Breast Pain
Breast pain may occur at almost any age, and may be caused by a number of things. The pain may be one-sided or bilateral, constant or intermittent, frequent or occasional--sharp, dull, aching, knife-like, or "sticking" sensations are all typical. When breast pain occurs, it can be unsettling. Where has this pain come from? Why now?
The most common reasons for breast pain are hormonal changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, and/or menopause or muscular strainings of the chest wall, upper back, and shoulder muscles.
How is this problem treated?
Following a thorough examination of the breasts, lymph nodes, and muscles of the chest and shoulders, you and your doctor or nurse practitioner will discuss whether you need such diagnostic tests as mammography, sonography, or needle aspiration of cysts. Typically, the clinical breast exam will provide your physician with the necessary information for a diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment measures may include:
- Reducing or stopping caffeine and nicotine intake
- Altering asthma medications
- Trying low-dose diuretics
- Changing birth control pills or hormone pills to another form or dosage
Some women respond favorably to vitamin E (600-800 IU daily), vitamin B complex (50-100 milligrams daily) or evening primrose oil (1000-1200 milligrams daily). Tincture of time may be especially helpful for perimenopausal women whose hormonal changes may be fairly rapid.
Good bra support (sometimes 24 hours per day), heat or cold packs (whichever feels better) and the use of medications like Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen can be helpful while you "wait it out."
If you know when the discomfort occurs--before bedtime or when ironing, for example--it may help to take pain medication before the pain starts. In very severe cases of breast pain, strong hormones (e.g., Danazol or Lupron), which stop the ovaries from functioning for a few months, may also provide relief.
Lumps and thickening
Breast pain
Discharge from the nipple
Breast infections
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