Gynecomastia, or hypertrophy of male breasts, is a problem that affects many men of all ages. Although it is usually not a health-threatening condition, it can cause psychological discomfort and lower self-esteem. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for gynecomastia that allow you to regain your confidence and enjoy a flat torso.
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What is gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of the breasts in men, caused by an overgrowth of the mammary gland or adipose tissue. It can occur unilaterally or bilaterally.
There are three main types of gynecomastia:
- True (glandular) gynecomastia: characterized by an overgrowth of glandular tissue in the breast.
- Pseudogynecomastia (adipose gynecomastia): results from the excessive accumulation of fat in the chest area.
- Mixed gynecomastia: a combination of true and pseudogynecomastia.
Causes of gynecomastia
Gynecomastia can have many causes, and the most common include:
- Hormonal disorders: an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone that can occur during puberty, old age, or as a result of diseases (e.g., hypothyroidism, Klinefelter syndrome).
- Medications: some medications, such as anabolic steroids, antidepressants, high blood pressure medications, can cause gynecomastia as a side effect.
- Obesity: excessive body weight promotes the accumulation of fat in the chest area, which can lead to pseudogynecomastia.
- Diseases: Certain diseases, such as testicular, liver, or kidney cancers, can cause gynecomastia.
- Drugs and alcohol: Substance abuse can also contribute to the development of gynecomastia.
- Genetic factors: genetic predisposition may increase the risk of gynecomastia.
Symptoms of gynecomastia
The main symptom of gynecomastia is breast enlargement in men. Other symptoms include:
- breast tenderness,
- breast pain,
- breast swelling,
- nipple discharge.
Diagnosis of gynecomastia
To diagnose gynecomastia, your doctor will perform a physical exam and may also order additional tests, such as:
- Blood tests: assessment of hormone levels (testosterone, estrogens, prolactin, thyroid hormones).
- Breast ultrasound: an imaging examination of the breasts to assess the structure of the mammary gland.
- Mammography: X-ray examination of the breast, used less frequently, mainly when cancer is suspected.
- Biopsy: taking a sample of breast tissue for histopathological examination, performed if cancer is suspected.
Treatment of gynecomastia
Treatment of gynecomastia depends on its cause, severity of symptoms and age of the patient.
Gynecomastia treatments:
- Conservative treatment :
- Lifestyle changes: weight reduction, regular physical activity, avoiding alcohol and drugs.
- Pharmacotherapy: hormonal drugs (e.g. tamoxifen, clomiphene) used in the case of glandular gynecomastia.
- Surgical treatment:
- Liposuction: suction of excess fat from the breasts, used in the case of pseudogynecomastia.
- Subcutaneous mastectomy: surgical removal of the mammary gland, used in the case of gynecomastia vera.
When to see a doctor?
Consult your doctor if:
- you notice breast enlargement,
- you have breast pain or tenderness,
- you have discharge from your nipples,
- You suspect that gynecomastia may be caused by a disease.
Gynecomastia prevention
To reduce the risk of gynecomastia, it is worth to:
- maintain a healthy body weight,
- regularly play sports,
- avoid alcohol and drugs,
- avoid the use of anabolic steroids,
- regularly monitor your health.
Gynecomastia and breast cancer in men
Although gynecomastia is usually a benign condition, in rare cases it can be a symptom of breast cancer in men. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor in case of any worrying symptoms.
Summary
Gynecomastia is a problem that can affect men of all ages. Fortunately, there are effective treatments to get rid of this condition and regain self-confidence. It is important that if you notice symptoms of gynecomastia, you should consult a doctor who will make a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.
Remark:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a doctor.
