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Is it normal for breasts to hurt underneath? No, it is essential not to ignore breast pain. Breast pain, also known as mastalgia, is a common and confusing symptom. It can be described as a feeling of pressure, aching, or tightness in the breast or underarm, ranging from mild to severe. It’s important to note that confusing breast pain with chest pain is widespread, which can signify a more severe condition.
Fortunately, there are various ways to stop the discomfort, from lifestyle changes to medication. For example, if the cause is hormone-related, your doctor may prescribe medication or recommend lifestyle changes. This article will discuss the various causes of breast pain, how to identify them, and the available treatments to eliminate them.
Painful Breast Cyst
Breast cysts are a common cause of pain under the breasts, particularly in women over 40. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can occur in any part of the body, including the breasts.
A cyst in the breast may be felt as a lump underneath the breast tissue or an area of thickening around the breast. They often compress the surrounding tissue, leading to pain ranging from dull pain under the left breast to sharp and stabbing sensations.
Pain due to breast cysts is commonly felt in both breasts, though it can also occur under only one side. A mammogram, ultrasound, or aspiration (removing fluid from the lump) may be recommended for cysts.
Breast Pain Caused by Mastitis
Mastitis is a common cause of pain under the left or right breast radiating to the back. While it is typically more common in breastfeeding women, mastitis can also occur in non-breastfeeding women and men.
Symptoms of mastitis include breast pain, tenderness, warmth, redness, and swelling. If an infection is present, there may be fever, flu-like symptoms, and a yellow discharge from the nipple.
Treatment for mastitis usually involves antibiotics, warm compresses, and rest. Depending on the severity, doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory or other medications to reduce the discomfort. In some cases, antibiotics are required for treatment.
Breast Pain Caused by Costochondritis
Costochondritis breast pain occurs when the cartilage connecting the ribs to the female breast bone pain becomes inflamed, causing sharp, stabbing pain between the breast and the chest.
Since the pain emanates from right behind the breast, it usually has the impression of coming directly from the breast. This problem might improve without treatment but is similar to mild arthritis. It is treated with an anti-inflammatory drug for a short period, such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
Pain under the left breast and ribs is also a condition of costochondritis. For costochondritis, a non-invasive treatment plan, such as stretching exercises, physical therapy, and over-the-counter pain medications, may be recommended.
Breast Pain Caused by Breast Cancer
Breast cancer rarely, but not always, results in pain. Although accounting for 1% to 5% of breast cancer cases, inflammatory breast cancer sometimes results in pain. A tumor will feel like a rock in your breast tissue if it becomes large enough for you to feel it.
Complex and asymmetrical tumors are cancerous growths. The breast may become red or discolored, swollen or heavy, or painful due to inflammatory breast cancer. See your doctor immediately if you have any concerns.
Breast Pain Caused by Heart, Muscular, or Digestive Problems
Pain under both breasts is a common complaint and can have a variety of causes. It is important to note that different conditions can cause pain under the left and right breast. For example, pain under the left breast may be caused by a heart condition, while a digestive disorder may cause pain under the right breast.
Other potential causes include chest trauma, an infection, or a muscle strain. It is essential to consult a doctor to determine the exact cause of the pain. Depending on the cause, the treatment may range from medication to physical therapy to surgery.
If the pain under your right breast radiates to your back, it could be due to a herniated disc or another muscular issue. Pain under the right breast in women should be taken seriously. In this case, rest and physical therapy may help alleviate the pain.
Final Thoughts
Minor cases of breast pain usually mean nothing, but it’s best to find out what’s causing them, just in case it’s something serious. Pain under the breasts can be confusing, as it can mimic pain from chest and rib issues. However, if the pain is cyclic, a few conditions could be the cause.
Regardless of the cause, if you experience breast pain for more than two weeks, you must visit your doctor to rule out more serious issues and get medical help immediately to ensure it isn’t more severe. All American Hospice is here to help you in difficult times by providing medical and phycology help.
FAQs About Pain Under Both Breasts
What causes pain under both breasts?
A fairly common issue is under-breast soreness (Intertrigo), wherein sweat and pressure can lead to inflammation and pain in the under-breast fold.
How do I stop the pain under my breasts?
Wear a supportive, well-fitting bra during the day and a softer bra at night. Take over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to get relief.
Is it normal for breasts to hurt underneath?
It is usual for women to have breast pain underneath. It can be because of hormonal dysfunction. Your breasts can also get sore before the beginning of your menstruation cycle. However, if you have constant pain underneath your breasts, you should check it.
What causes breast pain?
Changes in hormonal levels and menstrual cycles are the most common reasons behind breast pain. However, cancer and breast tumors can also cause breast pain.
What causes pain under the right breast radiating to the back?
Injuries, inflammation, muscle strain, and gastrointestinal problems can cause the most common pain under the right breast. However, muscles and injuries can also cause between breasts and side breast pain.
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