Swelling of the mammary glands

The phenomenon of swelling of the mammary glands, accompanied by an increase in their sensitivity up to a pronounced pain, in medicine was called mastodinia. There is swelling of the mammary glands before menstruation, as well as in girls in the prepubertal period.

Kinds

There are 2 types of mastodynia: cyclic and acyclic.

  1. The first form is associated with a direct fluid retention in the body of a woman, leading to swelling of the stroma of the mammary glands before menstruation and stagnation of blood in the veins. As a result, the nerve endings of the mammary glands are compressed, which is manifested by severe pain. In the blood there is an increase in the level of biologically active substances (histamine, prostaglandins), from which the mammary glands swell. In addition, painful sensations increase.
  2. In the mechanism of development of the acyclic form of the disease, the main role is played by the hormonal imbalance of the organism, caused by psychoemotional disorders. In addition, the swelling and soreness of the mammary glands can be manifestations of pathological phenomena (mastopathy).

Causes

The main issue that a woman encountered with this problem is: "Why do mammary glands swell?" The reasons for swelling of the mammary glands are quite numerous. Here are the main ones:

Manifestations

Cyclic pain and swelling of the mammary glands often occurs during the menstrual cycle and is observed in its second phase. This is due to a deficiency in the body of the hormone progesterone or excessive production of estrogens (from 10-14 days of the cycle and before the beginning of menstruation). The woman complains of drawing and aching pains, which are accompanied by a strong swelling of the mammary glands. Hypersensitivity is noted: it is painful to touch your chest. In this case, both mammary glands swell and hurt. Mastodynia of a cyclic character is observed in women aged 20-30, and also older than 40 years.

The acyclic form of mastodynia has no connection with the menstrual cycle. In this case, the swollen mammary glands in women are very sore. The nature of the pain is varied (burns, tunicates, whines), localization - strictly in a certain place. Only one breast is involved in the process, that is, the so-called asymmetry of pain is observed. This form is typical for women 40-50 years (the period of menopause).

Treatment

First of all, with mastodinia, it is necessary to completely exclude the factors leading to the development of pain (change of linen, change in the regime of the day). Also, a woman is shown taking vitamins B, E, and A, diuretics and sedatives. Under the supervision of a doctor, a woman is prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs (Indomethacin, Ketotenal, Ibuprofen). With severe pain, doctors often prescribe hormonal drugs, Bromocriptine.

Thus, the mammary glands can swell for many reasons. In order to properly establish and prescribe treatment, a woman should consult a doctor at the first manifestations.