Gynecomastia is a disorder in which a man’s or boy’s breast tissue grows or enlarges excessively. Breasts enlarge and can develop unevenly.
When a pre-teen male goes through the hormonal changes of puberty, he is more likely to develop gynecomastia. It can, however, happen to newborn newborns and males as they get older.
What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a benign (non-cancerous) disease that affects men. It might be caused by a variety of factors, including hormone changes. The etiology of many of these instances is unknown.
Changes in the amounts of the feminine hormone (estrogen) and the male hormone (testosterone) are common causes of gynecomastia (testosterone). However, it can also be caused by other factors.
Some medicines, such as antidepressants, antibiotics, chemotherapy, prostate cancer and ulcer treatments, and cardiovascular medications, might cause gynecomastia. Gynecomastia can also be caused by illegal substances like anabolic steroids, heroin, or marijuana.
Some diseases and medical conditions may also cause gynecomastia. These include:
Liver diseases
Kidney disease
Lung Cancer
testicular cancer
Tumors of the adrenal glands or pituitary gland
Certain conditions a baby is born with (congenital disorders)
Thyroid disorders
injury or trauma
obesity
A short-term type of gynecomastia can affect newborns. This is frequently induced by the presence of estrogen in the baby’s blood for some time after delivery.
Breast cancer is not connected to gynecomastia. Breast cancer in men is quite uncommon. However, your doctor may do tests to rule out breast cancer.
What are the signs and symptoms of male gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia can affect one or both breasts. It may begin as a lump or fatty tissue beneath the nipple that is uncomfortable. Breasts may expand in an uneven manner.
Gynecomastia symptoms might mimic those of other medical illnesses or issues. Always seek medical advice from a qualified professional.
How is gynecomastia diagnosed?
Your doctor will examine you and take notes on your past medical and medical history. You may also be subjected to testing to rule out other diseases or disorders, such as:
Blood testing, such as liver function tests and hormone studies are all available.
testing of the urine
X-ray of your breast at a low dosage (mammogram)
A biopsy of a tiny piece of breast tissue can be taken and analyzed for cancer cells.
In certain situations, no tests are required to determine the condition’s severity.
Your doctor may recommend that you consult a specialist in hormones and how they influence a variety of organs (endocrinologist).
How is gynecomastia treated?
Your healthcare practitioner will determine the optimal therapy for you based on the following factors:
your age
Your overall health as well as your prior health
What methods do you use to effectively manage specific drugs, therapies, or procedures?
How long do you think the situation will last
Your opinion or preference
Gynecomastia is most common during puberty. Without therapy, the disease generally improves on its own. It might take anywhere from six months to two or three years.
You might need to discontinue taking a medicine if it causes breast augmentation. It has the ability to resolve the issue. If the condition was caused by an illness, the ailment would need to be treated.
Gynecomastia can be treated with hormone treatment.
Surgery may be performed to remove extra tissue in rare situations.
Next steps
Here are some pointers to help you get the most out of your appointment with your healthcare provider:
Figure out why you’re here and what you want to accomplish.
Make a list of the questions you’d like addressed before you go.
Bring someone with you to answer questions and assist you remember what your doctor says.
Note the name of the new diagnosis, as well as any new medicines, therapies, or tests, during the appointment. Also, make a note of any new instructions given by your doctor.
Learn why a new medicine or therapy is being prescribed for you and how it will benefit you. Also, be aware of the potential negative effects.
Check to see if there are any alternative options for treating your illness.
If you have a follow-up appointment, make a note of the date, time, and reason for your visit.
If you have any questions, find out how to contact your doctor.
Key points about gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a disorder in which a man’s or boy’s breast tissue grows or enlarges excessively.
The breasts enlarge. They frequently develop in a haphazard manner.
Changes in the levels of the feminine hormone (estrogen) and the male hormone (testosterone) are frequently responsible. It might possibly be due to anything else.
The majority of instances occur during puberty in a teenage male or teen. It can, however, affect both newborn infants and elderly males.
It usually vanishes on its own. Hormonal treatment may be required in some situations. Surgery may also be used to aid with the condition’s treatment.