Chest palpation may cause pain?
I experience pain when pressing below my right nipple, but my left breast does not hurt.
I am currently in the first year of junior high school.
What could be the cause of this?
Xiao Xuan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/12
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Xiaoxuan,
Hello.
Most of the symptoms are caused by ductal hyperplasia of the breast, as the breast tissue on both sides responds differently to hormones, resulting in varying symptoms.
It is recommended to perform a self-examination every month to check for any painless lumps.
If you still have concerns, you may visit the breast surgery outpatient clinic for an examination.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely,
Zhou Jiazhen
Director of Surgery, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare
Reply Date: 2015/07/12
More Info
Pain under the right nipple can be concerning, especially for someone your age. It's important to understand that breast pain can arise from various causes, and not all of them are serious. Here are some potential explanations for the pain you're experiencing:
1. Hormonal Changes: At your age, your body is still going through significant hormonal changes due to puberty. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to breast tenderness or pain, particularly around the menstrual cycle. This is often referred to as cyclical breast pain and is quite common among adolescents.
2. Fibrocystic Changes: This condition is characterized by the presence of lumpy or painful areas in the breast tissue, often due to hormonal changes. These lumps can be tender and may cause discomfort, especially before your period.
3. Muscle Strain: Sometimes, pain under the nipple can be related to muscle strain or tension in the chest wall. If you've been active in sports or physical activities, this could be a reason for the discomfort.
4. Infections or Inflammation: Although less common in younger individuals, infections or inflammation of the breast tissue (mastitis) can occur. This is usually accompanied by redness, swelling, or warmth in the affected area.
5. Nerve Pain: Pain can also arise from nerve irritation or compression in the chest area. This can happen due to posture, physical activity, or even stress.
6. Breast Development: As your breasts develop, you may experience pain or discomfort in specific areas. This is typically normal and should resolve as your body adjusts.
7. Thyroid Issues: While thyroid problems can cause a variety of symptoms, they are less likely to be the direct cause of localized breast pain. However, thyroid imbalances can lead to changes in weight, energy levels, and overall hormonal balance, which may indirectly affect breast tissue.
Given your age and the nature of your symptoms, it is likely that the pain is related to hormonal changes or normal breast development. However, it is essential to monitor your symptoms. If the pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, discharge, or significant changes in your breast tissue, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.
In the meantime, here are some general tips to manage breast pain:
- Wear a supportive bra: A well-fitted bra can help reduce discomfort.
- Avoid caffeine and high-fat diets: Some studies suggest that reducing caffeine and fat intake may help alleviate breast pain.
- Apply heat or cold: A warm compress or ice pack can provide relief to the affected area.
- Practice good posture: Maintaining proper posture can help reduce muscle strain in the chest area.
Remember, while breast pain is often benign, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns. They can provide personalized advice and ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed.
Similar Q&A
Understanding Breast Pain in Young Girls: When to Seek Medical Advice
Hello, doctor: My daughter told me that she has been experiencing pain in her right breast for several days, but she forgot to mention it to me. I checked her, and the pain is located just slightly to the right of the nipple. It usually doesn't hurt, but it is very painful w...
Dr. Zhao Ming reply Breast and Thyroid
Generally, this is a normal developmental phenomenon and there is no need to be overly concerned; however, it is still important to have a physician evaluate the situation to reach a definitive conclusion. - Dr. Zhao Ming[Read More] Understanding Breast Pain in Young Girls: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Hard Lump Behind Right Nipple: Causes and When to Seek Help
Hello Dr. Chou, I have a hard lump behind my right nipple that sometimes causes mild pain. When I press on it, I can feel that the lump behind the nipple is round, and it is painful when I squeeze it. What could this condition be? Do I need to see a doctor? If so, which special...
Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello: 1. Symptoms similar to gynecomastia. 2. It is caused by an increase in female hormones in the body, similar to breast tenderness experienced during a woman's menstrual period; it can sometimes be painful. It is recommended to consult a specialist in breast surgery for...[Read More] Understanding Hard Lump Behind Right Nipple: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Hello, Dr. Yuan! I have a fibroma in my right breast and had two follow-up visits at the hospital last year. An ultrasound showed no abnormalities in my left breast, but recently (not during my menstrual period), I have been experiencing pain in the upper right area of my left br...
Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid
Breast pain is usually associated with nerves, muscles, blood vessels, lymphatics, and the menstrual cycle. If ultrasound and mammography have been performed and no abnormalities are found, treatment should be based on the symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Breast Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Hello, Doctor. About two weeks before my menstrual period, I started experiencing a sensation of breast tenderness in my nipples. Now that my period has started, the tenderness is still present, but it has decreased somewhat. However, if I touch the area just below the areola, I ...
Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Miss Fang, this is due to your menstrual period. If you need to seek medical attention, you should consult either a general surgeon or a breast surgeon. Wishing you good health, Dr. Wu.[Read More] Understanding Breast Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Related FAQ
(Breast and Thyroid)
Areola Itching(Breast and Thyroid)
Hyperthyroidism(Breast and Thyroid)
Areola(Breast and Thyroid)
Axilla(Breast and Thyroid)
Armpit(Breast and Thyroid)
Gynecomastia(Breast and Thyroid)
Thyroid Nodule(Breast and Thyroid)
Fibroadenoma(Breast and Thyroid)
Breast Examination(Breast and Thyroid)