Painful Right Nipple: Possible Causes and Concerns - Breast and Thyroid

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Understanding pain in the nipple area can be concerning, and it's important to approach this issue with a clear understanding of potential causes and when to seek medical advice. Based on your description, there are several possibilities that could explain the symptoms you're experiencing.

Firstly, the pain in your right nipple, especially when pressure is applied, could be due to a variety of benign conditions. One common cause is nipple irritation or inflammation, which can occur from friction, skin conditions, or even hormonal changes. If you have been wearing tight clothing or have had increased physical activity, this could contribute to localized pain.

Another possibility is ductal ectasia, a condition where a milk duct beneath the nipple dilates, fills with fluid, and thickens. This can lead to discomfort and sometimes a discharge. Although this condition is more common in women, men can experience similar issues, especially if there are hormonal imbalances.

You mentioned that the area feels like a large pimple or cyst. This could indicate the presence of a sebaceous cyst or an epidermoid cyst, which can develop in the skin and may become inflamed or infected, leading to pain. These cysts are generally benign and can be treated if they become bothersome.

Regarding your concern about gynecomastia, which is the enlargement of breast tissue in males, it typically presents as a firm mass of tissue beneath the nipple. While it can be associated with hormonal changes, it usually does not cause localized pain unless there is an underlying issue, such as inflammation or infection.

It's also important to consider the possibility of mastitis, which is an infection of the breast tissue that can occur in both men and women. This condition is often accompanied by redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area, along with pain.

While breast cancer in men is rare, it is not impossible. Symptoms of male breast cancer can include a lump or mass in the breast area, changes in the skin or nipple, and sometimes pain. However, the characteristics you've described—localized pain that is more pronounced with pressure and the feeling of a cyst—are less typical of cancer.

Given that your symptoms have persisted for two weeks, it is advisable to seek a medical evaluation. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to assess the area further. They can also provide guidance on whether any treatment is necessary based on their findings.

In summary, while there are several benign explanations for the pain and changes you are experiencing in your right nipple, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any serious conditions and to receive appropriate care. Early evaluation can help alleviate concerns and ensure that any necessary treatment is initiated promptly.