Unilateral Breast Pain
Pain that originates in the breast can cause anxiety and concern. Apprehension over the possibility of a significant medical problem, such as cancer, may prompt you to seek medical advice and possibly undergo testing to identify the source of the pain.
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When to See a Doctor
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Those with pain that persists or worsens significantly over the course of several weeks should see a doctor. However, concerned individuals can take comfort that, according the Mayo Clinic, pain is only indicative of breast cancer in two to seven percent of cases.
Noncyclic Breast Pain
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Unilateral breast pain is typically non-cyclical. The aching or burning pain is not commonly associated with a menstrual cycle and usually occurs in women who are between the ages of 40 to 50 years.
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Cyclic Breast Pain
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Cyclic breast pain corresponds with a woman's menstrual cycle, becoming the most painful approximately two weeks before the start of the period, and then dissipating. Cyclic breast pain affects both breasts and is usually described as a dull, aching sensation which directly corresponds to the swelling of the breasts before the start of the period.
Prevention/Solution
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Both cyclic and noncyclic breast pain typically respond well to non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). Severe, localized pain may be treated with a local anesthetic or steroid injection, while diffuse, bilateral pain may improve by wearing a supportive bra, avoiding caffeine, and taking Evening Primrose supplements.
Other Causes
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Unilateral breast pain can also stem from a breast infection (mastitis), trauma, breast cysts, benign tumors, fibromyalgia, or possibly breast cancer.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Fotolia.com, courtesy of chrisharvey
