Medically referred to as mastalgia or fibrocystic changes, breast pain is a condition that can affect many women of childbearing age. There are generally two types of breast pain: cystic and noncystic. Although many fear breast cancer, most cysts are caused by hormonal changes, aging, menstrual cycles, high caffeine intake, aging and stress. Noncystic breasts can be caused by pregnancy, ill-fitting bras or post menopause. While there are a wide range of cures, it is exceedingly important to get consistent breast exams by your doctor.
Diet
Changes in your diet can help you overcome breast pain. Caffeine has the chemical methylxanthine, which promotes blood vessels in your breasts to dilate. Cysts begin to form, along with aching and lumpiness. To decrease your chances of cysts, limit or avoid all caffeine. This can be difficult because it's in so many food and drinks, such as coffee, tea, chai, chocolate, energy drinks and carbonated beverages. Begin to decrease your daily consumption to avoid headaches. As anyone who has gone off coffee cold turkey can tell you, caffeine headaches are intensely painful. Fluid retention is another common cause of breast lumps or aches. Food high in salt will cause the breasts to retain extra water weight. Cut down on all processed foods. Likewise, animal fat and dairy have been found to promote breast pain. Plan a diet full of fruits and vegetables. For protein, eat tofu, soy products and, occasionally, fish. Numerous women experience the benefits of changing their diets within the first couple of days. They also see symptoms return almost immediately if they go off their diet.
Vitamins and Herbs
A daily regimen of vitamins and herbs have been found to be extremely helpful for women suffering from breast pain. Coenzyme Q10 works as an antioxidant to flush toxins from the body and support the immune system. Many women who are low in iodine are recommended to take kelp. Fibrocystic breasts have been linked to iodine deficiency. Iodine will also help your thyroid glands. Primrose oil is taken as a capsule to reduce the size of lumps and alleviate breast tenderness. Other important vitamins and herbs include vitamin B, zinc, bromelain, red clover and a well-rounded multimineral.
Life Changes
A bra that is either too tight or too big can aggravate breasts. Go to a department store with an extensive lingerie selection. Many sales people are trained to fit bras for customers. Make sure the bra you choose is for comfort rather than aesthetics. Some women find comfort in wearing a sports bra to bed. Sleeping on your back will also keep pressure off the breasts. Likewise, pursue stress relief activities and interests. Yoga and pilate exercises will not only relieve stress but also build muscles in your shoulders, abdomens and back. For women with a small frame and above-average size breasts, you will find strengthening exercises very important. Continue self-breast examinations at least once a month. A mammogram, sonogram or biopsy may be ordered for breast cysts.
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