10 Causes of swollen breasts, from PMS to infection & bull; hello healthy

What is called a swollen breast is when there is enlargement in one or both breasts, compared to the usual size of the breast. Breast engorgement may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, lumps, nipple changes, and nipple discharge.

Swollen breasts are usually a normal physiological process as seen at puberty, before menstruation, or during pregnancy. However, this condition may also be a symptom of a medical disorder.

The common cause of swollen breasts

1. Puberty

Puberty is the first time you have problems with your growing breasts. Swollen breasts are a sign of puberty in girls. Puberty occurs when the female body starts producing high levels of female hormones.

Girls usually experience breast development or engorgement between the ages of 7 and 13, although some girls can experience it earlier or later. As girls enter puberty, the tissue that forms in their breasts causes the flat area around the nipples to enlarge, and the breasts appear to be swollen.

2. Symptoms of menstruation

Most women experience changes in their breasts before or during the menstrual cycle. The breasts often become painful and swollen, feeling heavy and painful before menstruation begins. This is caused by a month's increase in the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This increase in the hormone progesterone triggers the growth of the mammary glands.

3. Pregnant

Swollen breasts are one of the first signs women notice when pregnant. Changes in the breasts can start from 1 to 2 weeks after conception.

4. Breastfeeding

If you breastfeed your child, you will also experience breast swelling. This is caused by the production of milk in the breast. Sometimes, a baby who sucks on the breast can cause temporary swelling, so don't worry.

5. Breast lumps

Sometimes, breast pain is caused by a benign lump in the breast. This lump can form during the breastfeeding process. The lump may also be a cyst and is not a cause for concern. Lumps in the breast should always be evaluated by a doctor

6. Breast infection

Breast infections can occur due to injury, breastfeeding and unclean habits. The signs that you can see if you have a breast infection are redness of the nipple and breast pain.

7. Lymphatic infection

The lymphatic system drains blood from outside the blood vessels to all tissues in the body. If the breast node becomes swollen due to infection, the area around it becomes red and pain too. You should call your doctor as soon as possible in case of lymphatic infection because it can be fatal if left untreated.

8. Mastitis

Mastitis is an infection caused by bacteria and can cause inflammation around the nipple and even fever. Your breasts will feel sore and feel hot to the touch. If this happens, the doctor will need to be contacted and will often prescribe antibiotics.

9. Breast fat necrosis

After surgery or injury, a lump may develop in the breast. This lump is caused by bruised tissue and is called necrosis of breast fat. These lumps are benign and do not cause breast cancer. However, this can cause soreness and tenderness in the breasts.

10. Breast cancer

If someone you have chronic and severe pain in the breasts, contact a doctor immediately. Swollen breasts accompanied by severe pain can be a symptom of breast cancer. Other signs include pain in the upper arm, soreness in the nipple, and a lump in the breast.

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