Causes and risk factors
The breast pain is of two types cyclic or non cyclic. Cyclic breast pain occurs every month during or before menstrual cycle. It is one of the premenstrual symptoms. It is caused due to variation in levels of hormones. Non cyclic breast pain may be caused due to structures that affect breast i.e. cysts, tumours in breast, trauma to chest wall. It may occur outside the breast and radiate to it. Other factors associated with breast pain are fatty acid imbalance, use of certain medications, large breast size, previous surgery of breast, surgery.
Clinical presentation
Breast pain is also known as mastalgia. The cyclical breast pain usually occurs in both the breasts. There is heaviness, soreness radiated to armpit. It is common in younger women. It disappears at menopause. Non cyclical pain may be caused in women between age of 30-40 years. Type of pain can be of any type depending on underlying cause like abscess, shingles, etc.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Physical examination of breast is done to reveal any swellings of adjacent lymphnodes, or breast lumps. Mammography, USG of breast, biopsy from the lump or swelling if any can help in further evaluation.
Treatment
No treatment is required for most of the patients and the pain resolves by itself. Treatment depends upon the underlying cause. Supportive care with medicines like NSAIDs or analgesics is given to reduce pain and discomfort. Avoiding use OC pills and taking other birth control measures will also help in managing breast pain.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating breast pain. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating breast pain.
