Breast pain

Breast pain
Other namesMastodynia, mastalgia, breast tenderness
SpecialtyGynecology
TypesCyclic, non-cyclic[1]
CausesMenstrual cycle related, birth control pills, hormone therapy, psychiatric medication, breast cancer[1]
Diagnostic methodExamination, medical imaging[1]
Differential diagnosisGallstones, thoracic outlet syndrome, costochondritis[2]
TreatmentReassurance after ruling out cancer, medications[2][1]
MedicationParacetamol, NSAIDs[1]
Prognosis>75% resolve without treatment[1]
Frequency70% of women[2]

Breast pain is the symptom of discomfort in either one or both breasts.[2] Pain in both breasts is often described as breast tenderness, is usually associated with the menstrual period and is not serious.[1][3] Pain that involves only one part of a breast is more concerning,[1] particularly if a hard mass or nipple discharge is also present.[3]

Causes may be related to the menstrual cycle, birth control pills, hormone therapy, or psychiatric medication.[1] Pain may also occur in those with large breasts, during menopause, and in early pregnancy.[1][3] In about 2% of cases breast pain is related to breast cancer.[4] Diagnosis involves examination, with medical imaging if only a specific part of the breast hurts.[1]

In more than 75% of people the pain resolves without any specific treatment.[1] Otherwise treatments may include paracetamol or NSAIDs.[1] A well fitting bra may also help.[3] In those with severe pain tamoxifen or danazol may be used.[1] About 70% of women have breast pain at some point in time.[2] Breast pain is one of the most common breast symptoms, along with breast masses and nipple discharge.[1]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o Salzman, B; Fleegle, S; Tully, AS (15 August 2012). "Common breast problems". American Family Physician. 86 (4): 343–9. PMID 22963023.
  2. ^ a b c d e Iddon, J; Dixon, JM (13 December 2013). "Mastalgia". BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.). 347: f3288. doi:10.1136/bmj.f3288. PMID 24336097. S2CID 220173019.
  3. ^ a b c d "Breast pain". nhs.uk. 17 October 2017. Retrieved 11 November 2022.
  4. ^ Mazza, Danielle (2011). Women's Health in General Practice. Elsevier Health Sciences. p. 189. ISBN 978-0729578714.