What is Mastodynia?
Breast pain, also called mastodynia or mastalgia, is an extremely common condition. Breast pain can be classified as either cyclical or noncyclical. Some women may have concerns that the pain and tenderness they experience are early signs of breast cancer, if the symptoms resolve within a few days it is unlikely to be breast cancer. Ongoing pain that is not improving or worsening, or associated with redness or a mass should be evaluated by your physician.
Cyclical Breast Pain
The most common form of breast pain is called cyclic mastalgia, in which both breasts become tender, painful, swollen, or lumpy right before your menstrual cycle. The pain often affects the upper and outer portions of both breasts and may also affect the underarm area as well.
Noncyclical Breast Pain
This type of breast pain is not related to your menstrual cycle patterns. It usually feels like a burning, sharpness, or soreness in one area of the breast rather than a general feeling of tenderness or pain. The pain may also come and go. Although not related to the cycle, it can still be related to hormones such as in the perimenopausal stage of life.
A common cause of breast pain is not from the breast at all, it is costochondritis, or inflammation of the junction of the bone and cartilage part of the rib cage, which can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications.
Board-Certified Surgeon
MICHELE LEY, MD, FACS
Dr. Ley, a breast surgical oncologist in Tucson since 2006, delivers compassionate and personalized care to create tailored treatment plans based on the latest research. Specializing in surgical care for breast cancer and high-risk patients, she employs minimally invasive techniques and practices oncoplastic surgery to optimize outcomes.
More About Dr. Ley
Diagnosing Mastodynia
While breast pain is very common, you should see your doctor if you are experiencing breast pain that is not cyclical or if your breast pain only appears in a specific area.
A breast exam is the first step toward diagnosis. It is best to have your breasts examined one week after the end of your menstrual period. Following an exam, your doctor can then take any appropriate next steps. Women over 40 or women under 40 with breast pain and other symptoms may need imaging such as ultrasound or mammogram.
“The level of care is excellent.”
Mastodynia Treatment
Treating breast pain is often a multifaceted approach. The following treatment options may help reduce symptoms.
Dietary Changes
Some women find that reducing or eliminating caffeine from their diets can help reduce breast tenderness. Eating a low-fat diet can also decrease estrogen levels to improve breast discomfort and lumpiness.
Lifestyle Changes
Various lifestyle changes can help to reduce breast pain. Exercise can decrease estrogen levels to improve breast tenderness, and wearing a supportive bra daily can relieve breast pain. Quitting smoking can reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
Nutritional Supplements
Various nutritional supplements have been shown to be beneficial in treating breast pain, including:
- Evening primrose oil
- Black currant seed oil and borage oil
- Dietary flaxseed
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin B6
Medications
There are many different medications that can be used to address breast pain, including:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (Aspirin, Ibuprofen)
- Tamoxifen
- Danazol and Bromocriptine which are rarely used today.
Contact Us Today
If you have questions or concerns regarding breast pain, please contact Tucson Breast Health Specialists in Tucson, AZ today. Your first step will be to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ley.
Mastodynia FAQs
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