Occasional or minor breast pain is very common, and is not usually a cause for concern. However, there are a few situations in which a person should seek medical help.
If a person develops the following symptoms, they should immediately see their Doctors.
- severe chest pain
- chest pressure
- uncomfortable squeezing or fullness in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a couple of moments, or that goes away but then comes back
- trouble breathing, with or without chest discomfort
- discomfort or pain in the back, one or both arms, neck, jaw, or stomach
- a cold sweat, light-headedness, or nausea
- loss of consciousness
In many cases, breast pain is related to hormonal changes. It can also occur due to infection, noncancerous growths or blockages, and injury. Some common causes of breast pain include:
Menstrual cycle
Many people experience breast pain and tenderness that comes and goes in accordance with their menstrual cycle.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
During pregnancy, certain hormones in the body rise, increasing blood flow and fluid levels in the breasts. This can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness.
Mastitis
Mastitis is a bacterial infection in the breast.