- It is thought that caffeine can contribute to breast pain. Try reducing caffeine intake or eliminating it altogether if possible. Try drinking decaf coffee and switching to caffeine-free soda, although water is always your best go-to drink.
- Although you may crave salt during your period, try to resist the urge to eat too much of it. Monitor your salt consumption and keep it around 1,000 to 1,500 mg per day. Avoid food with excess salt, such as chips, pretzels and french fries. If you salt most of your food, eliminate one or two salt packets per week until you stop using too much.
- Both the California Pacific Medical Center and the United States National Library of Medicine in Bethesda, Maryland, say that a high-fat diet can contribute to breast pain and tenderness. Try keeping your daily fat intake under 65 mg per day and stick to foods low in fat, such as fruits and vegetables to satisfy your hunger.
- For some women, cold or hot packs can help relieve breast pain and tenderness. Try placing a hot pack, hot water bottle, ice or cold pack on your chest (over your bra to avoid damaging the skin). Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes. In addition, try taking anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen to keep the painful swelling down.
- Although breast tenderness is normal, call your doctor if it becomes severe. In addition, alert your doctor if you have discharge from your breasts (especially brown or bloody discharge) or if you feel any unusual lumps or bumps in your breast tissue (especially if it is on only one side).
