What Is Gynecomastia?
Diagnosing individuals with breasts is termed gynecomastia. It occurs due to a hormonal imbalance which some men might naturally go through, but it can also be caused by other external or internal factors.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
Knowing what potentially causes gynecomastia is vital. Here are a few:
Hormone Imbalance
Testosterone vs Estrogen: Most boys and men have elevated testosterone levels, but their body’s ability to synthesize estrogen may cause breast tissue to develop.
Medicines
Some Medications: Steroids and several other medications may also result in gynecomastia. Always ensure to consult your physician regarding the side effects of your treatment and the medication being provided.
Health Issues
Degrading Living Conditions: Diseases such as hepatic failure, renal failure, and some thyroid problems may lead to developing breasts by affecting the hormonal levels of the body.
Substance Use
Marijuana and alcohol: Using excessive amounts of some substances like marijuana and drinking too much alcohol can result in gynecomastia.
Signs of Gynecomastia
Identifying these symptoms can inform you whether you have developed gynecomastia.
Breast Enlargement
One or Both Breasts: Accompanied or not with pain, the breast or breasts may go through an enlargement phase.
Tenderness
Sore body parts: Your breast area is likely to go through soreness, tenderness, or discomfort when touched.
Nipple changes
Nipples that hurt may be a bit more sensitive than normal.
Diagnosing Types of Gynecomastia
Visiting the doctor
Checkup: The doctor is able to look at your breasts during the check-up to find out whether you have gynecomastia or another condition that could be making your breasts grow.
Medical history
Health Background: Explaining to the doctor how you have been feeling, both mentally and Physically as well as a list of drugs you use comes in handy in diagnosis.
Tests
Blood tests: Blood tests are capable of checking the amounts of hormones present.
Imaging: Ultrasounds are able to look inside your breasts and so aided by imaging, the doctor is in a better position to see what is going on inside your breasts.
Treatment for gynecomastia.
Wait and see: Through observation, the doctor may see that some gynecomastia, especially during puberty, goes away. The doctor suggestion is likely to be observation.
Medicine
Hormone therapy: Medicine is able to get rid of the imbalance caused and therefore assist in restoring balance to the hormones.
Surgery
Liposuction: In the removal of part of the breast, excess fat is removes during this surgery.
Mastectomy: This surgery involves the removal of glandular tissue and a bit of skin.
Boys and men are usually inflicted with this condition gynecomastia by imbalance of hormones, medicines, health conditions and substance use. Symptoms are easy to notice, however seeking help is paramount to aid in dealing with gynecomastia. Treatment ranges from observation, medicine and surgery dependant on severity.