16 March 2023
Our breasts undergo many changes from puberty to postmenopause. Breast pain can occur at any age and is commonly caused by temporary hormonal fluctuations. The type of pain can be sharp, needle-like, dull, achy or throbbing, and is usually not a sign of breast cancer but should always be reported to your GP or Gynaecologist if it persists.
Frequent causes of breast pain are overweightedness, having too much caffeine (coffee or green tea should be then reduced), some vaccinations, cholesterol-lowering medications, stress and intense physical workouts.
Breast pain and lumps can sometimes be due to cysts or fibroadenomas, and should always be flagged.
Various herbal remedies, such as Agnus Castus or Primrose oil, can help reduce the cyclic breast tension which appears a few days before your periods. These herbal and over the counter remedies should always be discussed with your GP or Gynaecologist, as they are not safe when there are other health conditions such as Epilepsy.
Self-checking your breasts is a truly simple and useful way to check your breast health. You can do this once a month during the last few days of your period and, if you notice something different from the usual findings you should speak to your Doctor.
Self-checking the breasts is important between ages 20 and 40, after which the breast tissues become more dense and difficult to assess through a self-check. From age 40 onwards mammograms and breast ultrasounds are the accurate way to check the breast health.
Symptoms to look out for are the following:
Lumps of any size, whether they are tender or not.
Breast or nipple tenderness that persist.
Swelling or red/flaky skin on any part of the breast or nipple.
Discharge or bleeding from the nipple.
Dimpling of the nipple or of the breast’s skin.