Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by the swelling of breast tissue in boys and men. Although not usually a serious medical concern, it can have a significant impact on an individual’s self-esteem and confidence. The main cause of gynecomastia is a hormonal imbalance, which can occur at various stages of life. Newborns, boys going through puberty, and older men may experience breast tissue swelling as a result of natural hormonal changes in their bodies. In many cases, gynecomastia resolves on its own without any treatment. However, if the condition persists, there are various treatment options available to alleviate the symptoms.
Gynecomastia Symptoms: What to Look Out For
Gynecomastia can manifest in various ways, often affecting the breast tissue on either one or both sides of the chest. However, it is worth noting that the swelling may not be evenly distributed. Alongside the noticeable swelling, individuals may experience tenderness or pain in the affected area. Furthermore, the areola, which is the pigmented skin encircling the nipple, may also enlarge in size.
If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent swelling, pain, tenderness in the chest area, or even nipple discharge, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Consulting a doctor will help provide a proper diagnosis and determine the best course of action for managing gynecomastia.
Gynecomastia Causes: Natural Hormone Changes
Gynecomastia is primarily caused by natural hormone changes in the body. Testosterone and estrogen are the two hormones responsible for the development and maintenance of sex characteristics in both men and women. Testosterone is responsible for the typical “male” traits such as body hair and muscle mass, while estrogen is responsible for the typical “female” traits including breast growth.
Contrary to popular belief, men do produce small quantities of estrogen naturally. In fact, more than half of male infants who develop gynecomastia do so because of the estrogen passed on from their mothers. Fortunately, the swollen breast tissue in infants usually goes away within two to three weeks.
Gynecomastia can also occur during puberty in boys. During this stage, hormonal imbalances can lead to swollen breast tissue. However, in most cases, this resolves on its own within six months to two years as the body adjusts to the changing hormone levels.
It’s worth noting that gynecomastia is not limited to specific age groups. Approximately one in four men between the ages of 50 and 69 develop gynecomastia, suggesting that hormone changes can occur at any stage of life.