| Breast pain | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Mastodynia, mastalgia, breast tenderness |
| Specialty | Gynecology |
| Types | Cyclic, non-cyclic[1] |
| Causes | Menstrual cycle related, birth control pills, hormone therapy, psychiatric medication, breast cancer[1] |
| Diagnostic method | Examination, medical imaging[1] |
| Differential diagnosis | Gallstones, thoracic outlet syndrome, costochondritis[2] |
| Treatment | Reassurance after ruling out cancer, medications[2][1] |
| Medication | Paracetamol, NSAIDs[1] |
| Prognosis | >75% resolve without treatment[1] |
| Frequency | 70% 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]