Gynecomastia is a condition of enlargement of the breast tissue in men or boys. Due to exposure to their mother's estrogen, newborn males frequently have gynecomastia. Moreover, it can happen to boys going through puberty. It typically disappears on its own in both situations. Men over 50 years old are most likely to experience it in adulthood. One breast may be affected or both.
Signs and symptoms may affect one or both breasts. These symptoms may include :
Small amount of extra tissue around the nipples
Nipple sensitivity with rubbing against clothes
Swollen breast tissue
Pain
Nipple discharges
Visit a general practice doctor (general practitioner) if you experience any of the above symptoms. you might be referred to an endocrinology doctor (endocrinologist) for proper diagnosis and follow-up.
Gynecomastia may be caused by :
Hormonal imbalance between the sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone)
Obesity
Newborn babies may have gynecomastia due to the passing of estrogen from the mother to the baby through the placenta.
Hormonal disturbance during puberty (a drop in testosterone level)
Less testosterone production in older ages.
As a side effect of some medicines (such as antibiotics, chemotherapy, antidepressants, prostate cancer medicine, and cardiovascular medicine)
Some diseases (such as liver disease, kidney disease, lung cancer, overactive thyroid gland)
Adding to the case history and physical examination, your doctor may order the following tests to rule out other conditions :
Blood tests (liver function tests, thyroid function tests, hormonal levels tests)
Urine test
Mammogram
Breast tissue sample in case you are suspected to have cancer
Some cases may not need any treatment and the problem will resolve on its own. Other cases may need treatment depending on the cause of gynecomastia. Treatment options may include :
Medications to adjust the hormonal imbalance
In rare cases, surgery to remove the excess breast tissue may be needed
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