When to Worry About Swollen Breasts: A Healthcare Guide

Approximately 60% of women have painful or swollen breasts. Menopause, menstruation, pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations, pulled muscles, unsupportive bras … the list of reasons are endless! Many people start to worry—and understandably so— when experiencing breast pain and discomfort.

However, Googling terms like “breasts are swollen” and “breasts hurt” may send you down a dark rabbit hole. If you’re concerned about breast inflammation or pain, we’ve assembled a guide here. Let’s get started!

Signs of Breast Swelling

If your breasts are swollen, they may look larger than usual. However, they may feel heavier, and veins in your breasts may be more noticeable.

Your breasts may also feel tender, uncomfortable, or painful. This pain can radiate from the breast area toward your armpits. If the texture of your breasts or the skin on your breast changes, this is another sign of swelling.

Breasts may also feel warm, hot, or hard. Depending on what you’re actually experiencing, symptoms may vary.

To deal with initial discomfort, try wearing a more supportive bra. You may need to change what type of bra you are wearing. You can also try heat or ice, depending on what feels best. Another option is taking some ibuprofen, per the label’s instructions.

However, these solutions are only temporary. It’s important that you figure out the root cause of these issues, that way, you can receive the appropriate medical intervention.

What Causes Swollen Breasts?

There are countless reasons for breast inflammation or breast pain. One of the most common culprits is PMS. Prior to your period, estrogen levels rise. This change in hormone levels causes breast ducts and milk glands to enlarge.

It also increases water retention. All of these things can cause swollen breasts.

Pregnancy is another cause of breast swelling, which can occur at any stage of your pregnancy. Of course, it will be most noticeable in the later stages. Your breasts may swell in the postpartum period, too.

Mastitis can also cause swelling. When breastfeeding, your milk ducts may get infected.

Food and drink with high salt or caffeine levels may also cause breast swelling. Another cause is fibrocystic breast disease, which occurs when you develop lumps in your breasts that are noncancerous.

Before you start Googling “fibrocystic breast disease natural remedies,” remember that it’s crucial to get checked out by a medical professional. Fibrocystic lumps aren’t dangerous but may be uncomfortable.

It’s dangerous to assume that a lump isn’t cancerous, though. Only your medical professional can tell you whether you’re dealing with a cancerous lump or not.

Dealing with Swollen Breasts

If you are experiencing issues with swollen breasts, remember to do your research and consult your doctor. If you walk into your appointment armed with information, then you’ll be able to express your concerns and deal with the diagnosis you receive.

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