One of the first common of menopause in women breast tenderness. Through this article, let us discuss the reasons and remedial measures for breast tenderness after menopause…
A woman is generally considered to be in her menopausal stage when she ceases to get her regular menstrual cycle, which indicates that her reproductive phase are over. This is post menopause, a time when fertility stops. The body undergoes a number of changes and begins to exhibit signs during this period. Post menopause breast tenderness is a common complaint among women, with the soreness experienced of varying degrees. Here are some of the possible reasons for breast tenderness after menopause, along with the measures to bring down the soreness and pain.
Causes of Post Menopausal Breast Tenderness
The primary reason for breast tenderness is often fluctuations in the hormonal levels in the body. Entering nters the post menopausal stage, there is less production of hormones, estrogen and progesterone. At times it may drop down below normal warranting hormonal replacement therapy, to bring back the levels to normal. The body requires time to get used to these synthetic hormones and which can result in swelling of the breasts, followed by a feeling of tenderness or soreness. This condition is referred to as mastalgia and can last up to a couple of years.
Secondary Causes
An infection in either or both the breasts due to a blocked duct can alleviate the feeling of tenderness. This can lead to the formation of an abscess, causing inflammation in the tissue. Other symptoms accompanying this condition are lumpiness, appearance of red rashes and discharge. The infection may be caused due to pathogens, or may also be a side effect of certain drugs or medication. The ducts may also be blocked due to the infection, which can further aggravate the condition.
In some cases, sore breasts may also be a sign of breast cancer. If you have a feeling of soreness and the color and shape of the areola may change. On observation, formation of lump may also be felt in the breast, especially near the armpit. All these signs may indicate the manifestation of breast cancer. Other factors contributing towards breast tenderness in the post menopausal stage can be accumulation of fatty tissue in the breasts, the formation of cysts, and a blow or trauma in the chest region may also affect the breasts.
Relieving Breast Tenderness
A discomforting condition, women look for ways to relieve breast tenderness. Never ignore any changes that are taking place in the body, as it can indicate of some underlying health condition, often associated with the heart, or it can also be a grievous injury. Before opting for treatment, it is essential to determine the root cause of breast soreness, which will make it easier to treat the problem. The doctor may conduct a few tests just to confirm that the soreness is not because of some serious repercussion. In case if the breast soreness is not something serious, then try changing the style and cut your bra, which may work, if it is too uncomfortable.
Pain relievers, like topical creams and medications, may also be prescribed to relieve the pain and discomfort. On the other hand, if there is some other reason, then the physician may devise other diagnostic tests to check the intensity of the condition and administer treatment accordingly. Though a common problem that women experience in their post menopausal stage, it can be quite bothersome to have sore breasts all the time. In order to deal with this and other problems related to menopause, get in touch with your gynecologist.