Breast swelling can be caused by infection, hormonal changes, pressure on the breast tissue, improper breastfeeding techniques, benign cysts, and cancer. A mammogram can help diagnose breast cancer, which can appear as a lump or tissue on the breast. Pregnancy and certain medications can also cause breast swelling.
One of the most common causes of breast swelling, or mastitis, is infection. Other causes of breast swelling can be hormonal changes. Women of menstruating age may notice some tenderness or swollen breasts during their monthly cycles. A breast abscess can also cause breast swelling.
When an individual develops a breast infection, it can be caused by a bacterium known as staph, which commonly produces a skin infection called staph infection. If present on the surface of the skin, this bacterium can enter through an open wound or cut into the breast. Small lumps or bruises may also occasionally appear.
Pressure on the breast tissue can also cause mastitis. This can be caused by wearing restrictive clothing, such as an extremely tight sweater or poorly fitting bra. This is not as common, however, as an infection from breastfeeding.
When a nursing woman does not properly empty the fluid or milk from her breasts after feeding, a blockage of the milk ducts can occur. This can lead to infections. This can also be caused by improper breastfeeding techniques, such as a delay between pumping. In some cases, a woman’s nipples can become irritated, leading to tiny cracks through which bacteria enter.
Other causes of breast swelling are hormonal changes. This can occur at various stages in a woman’s life. Starting in adolescence, girls may notice enlarged breasts, along with breast tenderness and pain. Menstruation can cause breast swelling in some women, along with fluid retention. Many women who are experiencing menopausal symptoms may notice breasts that are swollen at various intervals.
A benign cyst can produce symptoms such as inflammation, pain and swelling of the breast. Any discharge or drainage from the breast should be examined by a doctor. If infection is present, your doctor may prescribe a course of oral antibiotics and possibly a topical cream.
Cancer is a more serious cause of breast swelling. Breast cancer, which appears as a lump or lump of tissue on the breast, can typically be diagnosed with a mammogram. Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare form that can produce significant redness, inflammation, and pain. Other forms of breast cancer can be difficult to detect without a mammogram.
A mammogram is similar to an x-ray. With a mammogram, however, the radiation is typically not as high as with an X-ray. Commonly, a breast mammogram will be evaluated by a radiologist for any abnormalities that could indicate breast cancer.
Some common causes of swollen breasts are usually overlooked. A common cause of swollen or enlarged breasts is pregnancy. Another cause is the use of certain medications, such as oral contraceptives.
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