Breast swelling and soreness commonly occur due to natural hormone fluctuation. However, swelling and pain can also signify chronic hormone imbalance or breast infections. If your breasts remain swollen and sore for more than a few weeks, or the pain is very uncomfortable, go to your doctor.
While cancer is not usually the cause of pain and swelling, it is a possibility.
Features
Breast swelling and soreness is often caused by hormonal changes that occur during menstruation, menopause or pregnancy. Swelling and pain may also be a symptom of mastitis.
Swelling sometimes occurs more in one breast than in the other breast. Changes in general feel, such as lumpiness, is common if the cause is hormonal.
If mastitis or another infection is causing swelling, the breasts may feel tender and hot.
Identification
When breast swelling and soreness persist past the normal menstrual cycle, you should talk to your physician. She may suggest scheduling an appointment. During your appointment, your doctor will examine your breasts and may order an ultrasound or other imaging procedures to rule out infections, cysts, cancer or any breast abnormalities.
Prevention/Solution
If your pain and swelling occur monthly due to hormones; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine, such as ibuprofen, may help. Avoid drinks containing caffeine during this time; caffeine promotes swelling.
Chronic breast pain and swelling that is caused by hormones require special care. You may require hormone supplements
For mastitis, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Nursing mothers are especially prone to mastitis. If you are nursing, you may be able to prevent mastitis by keeping nipples clean and by emptying your breasts frequently.
Warning
One rare type of cancer, called inflammatory breast cancer, can cause swelling and pain. Because this cancer is aggressive, the sooner a doctor diagnoses and treats this, the better. If you are concerned about breast swelling or pain, do not put off going to your doctor.
Time Frame
Breasts may swell and become tender a few days to a week before menstruation or may remain tender throughout a woman's period. Some women experience tenderness around ovulation, as well. Chronic tenderness can also occur. This is usually caused by hormone imbalance or an undetected infection.
Considerations
Although hormones cause most cases of breast soreness or swelling, these symptoms may be covering up other problems. Be aware of changes in the breasts and discuss these changes with your doctor. At the least, doing this will put your mind at ease if it turns out to be nothing serious.
Always speak with your physician if you also have swelling in the arms or armpits.
Tags: your doctor, pain swelling, swelling soreness, your breasts, Breast swelling soreness, doctor will, hormone imbalance
