Causes Of Breast Tenderness And Inflammation

Inflammation in the breasts is something very common in women, no matter how old we are: adolescents, young people or women who have reached menopausal age, we all feel that discomfort on a regular basis.

For our peace of mind, there are some aspects that we must know and about which we will talk throughout this article.

My breasts hurt and I feel swollen: why is this?

When the body shows discomfort or pain, it is a symptom of some underlying process. In the case of the breasts, in a high number of women it occurs due to hormonal alterations and many others suffer it due to premenstrual syndrome.  Next, we explain the most common causes of this pain.

Menstrual cycle

Period pain almost always appears in the days before menstruation or after ovulation. It can be more or less intense and long-lasting, depending on each woman. In addition, it can be accompanied by other types of discomfort:

• Swelling of one or both breasts.
• Pressure and cramps in the belly.
• Some heaviness in the lower back.

All these discomforts are  caused by an increase in hormones in the blood due to the release of the ovum. There will be months when they are more intense and times when breast swelling and pain are more bearable.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, breast discomfort is an obvious cause. Every woman who has been through it knows the pain that occurs during this stage. It is totally different from the pain we feel during menstruation. Some characteristics of breast pain in pregnancy are as follows:

• The breasts become swollen and painful because the milk ducts are expanding.

• It is usually one of the first symptoms of pregnancy and becomes evident, on average, two weeks after conception.
• If you see very significant changes in your breasts during pregnancy or lactation, for example, a change in the color of your areolas, or you suffer from  very intense pain that radiates to the back, do not hesitate to go to the doctor.

Mastitis

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breasts. It has its origin in an obstruction of the milk ducts. The cause is usually an infection by a bacterium or a fungus and, therefore, you should consult your doctor. The symptoms that you should know and take into account are:

• Redness of the breasts.
• Very intense pain and even discomfort with the simple rubbing of clothing.
• Fever.

Cysts in the breasts

Another cause of inflammation in the breasts is the possible presence of cysts. Breast cysts are small fluid-filled sacs that form inside the breasts. In most cases, it is not a serious ailment, but you should consult your doctor.

Most of the time they can be palpated with a simple self-examination. However, do not forget  your medical check-ups and your mammograms to prevent and treat these problems that, as we say, are usually very common in women.

Some medications can cause breast swelling

We must bear in mind that some drugs can have breast inflammation as a side effect, such as birth control pills and hormone replacement drugs, among many others. Therefore, it is always important to consult with your doctor.

How to reduce discomfort due to inflammation in the breasts?

First of all, it is advisable to avoid (or at least minimize) the consumption of saturated fats, sweets and salt during the menstrual period. In addition, placing a hot water bottle on the chest can also contribute to relief, as well as gently massage with a little moisturizer.

On the other hand, the consumption of foods rich in vitamin E and vitamin B could help combat these inflammatory processes, when they are included in a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle in general.

If you would like to consume some type of infusion with anti-inflammatory properties, such as chamomile or ginger, the ideal would be that you first consult with your doctor about it to avoid interactions with the medications you are taking as well as adverse reactions.