Gynecomastia, sometimes known as enlarged breasts in men, is a hormonal disorder which causes breast tissue enlargement in boys and men. It is possible for this to occur if the body’s natural balance of two hormones is disrupted in some way. Pseudo gynecomastia is a distinct medical disorder that refers to cases in which an individual’s breasts appear disproportionately enormous due to the presence of excess fat.
Despite the fact that men do not develop breasts in the same way that women do, a little amount of breast tissue is present in every boy at birth.
During puberty, the majority of the hormone known as testosterone is produced in boys’ bodies. Testosterone is responsible for directing boys’ sexual development. However, guys also produce some , which is the hormone that guides sexual development in females.
The ratio of oestrogen to testosterone shifts, which can occur either because a kid is going through puberty or because an older man’s body is producing less testosterone.
When this occurs, male breast tissue may enlarge due to the presence of a higher than normal proportion of oestrogen. To some degree, this condition will affect approximately half of the males who are adolescents and as many as two-thirds of the men who are over the age of 50.
Signs And Symptoms Of Gynecomastia
If you have gynecomastia, the first thing you could notice is a bulge of fatty tissue under your chin. There are occasions when this bulge is painful or tender.
Because of this, you can start to worry that you have breast cancer, which is something that can happen to a small percentage of men. Gynecomastia is not always an indication that cancer is present, but your physician may do several tests to rule out the possibility.
There is a possibility that the breasts will swell in an unequal manner, with one getting larger than the other. It might also cause tenderness in breasts.
If you find that one or both of your breasts are swollen, uncomfortable, or sore, or if there is a discharge coming from the nipple of either breast, you should make an appointment with your primary care physician.
Gynecomastia Causes
Male breast growth can be caused by a hormone imbalance, which can be triggered by a number of different situations; however, the particular origin of the imbalance is not always understood.
In addition to the changes in the body that occur throughout puberty and aging, the following are some other reasons that might induce gynecomastia:
- Damage to the testicles, which are responsible for the production of testosterone, is caused by sickness or injury.
- Problems with the thyroid, because hormones produced by that gland are responsible for regulating growth and the development of sexuality.
- Certain malignancies, such as those affecting the lungs, pituitary gland, or adrenal glands, can be fatal.
- Obesity, which has been linked to higher oestrogen levels
- Illicit drugs such as anabolic steroids, heroin, and marijuana, amongst others.
- Kidney Malfunction
- Disease of the liver
While the hormones from their mothers are still present in their bodies, it is possible for some newborn males to experience a temporary case of gynecomastia.
Following Different medications are connected with gynecomastia:
- Anti-androgens: These are medications that are used to treat prostate cancer as well as an enlarged prostate.
- Steroids: In an effort to boost their sports performance, some athletes will resort to illegally obtaining and using these medications. In addition, the medications have accepted medical applications for the treatment of specific illnesses.
- HIV Medications: An HIV medication known as “highly active antiretroviral therapy” (HAART) has been linked to the development of gynecomastia in some patients.
- Anxiety Treatment Medicines: Gynecomastia can also be induced in those who are using diazepam (Valium).
- Medications for the heart: Certain medications, including digoxin (Lanoxin) and calcium channel blockers, have been linked to cases of gynecomastia in some patients.
- Stomach Purging Medications: For instance, the medication metoclopramide (Reglan) has been shown to cause gynecomastia in some patients.
- Ulcer Medicines: Cimetidine is one of the over-the-counter medications for ulcers that has been linked to gynecomastia development in certain patients (Tagamet HB).
Additionally, gynecomastia may be caused by the use of certain antibiotics. Tricyclic antidepressants and certain cancer treatments might also cause this side effect.
Gynecomastia Diagnosis
If your doctor suspects gynecomastia, they will likely check for hard lumps, oozing fluid, or skin issues that could indicate cancer.
In addition to this, they will most likely inquire about your past medical conditions by asking you questions such as the following:
Have you ever been diagnosed with an illness such as measles, kidney problems, or liver disease?
What kinds of drugs, whether legal or illegal, have you tried?
You might also be subjected to examinations. They might include the following:
Tests of the blood or samples of the urine:
- Mammogram
- Biopsy
- CT scans
- MRI scans
- Testicular ultrasounds
Permanent Treatment For Gynecomastia (Man-Boobs)
Most cases have chances of improvement without any therapy.
Your primary care doctor may prescribe an endocrinologist for gynecomastia. In many cases, doctors diagnose and treat hormone-related illnesses via medications of synthetic hormones.
The manner in which your ailment is treated could be determined by factors such as your age, the state of your health, how long your condition might endure, and how well you react to particular medications.
Gynecomastia that occurs during puberty typically resolves on its own without medical intervention. This could take 1–3 years.
You’ll need to treat the underlying condition if your hormones are out of balance.
It’s possible that a hormone imbalance, which is what’s causing your breasts to expand, could be treated with medicine.
In certain circumstances, you might require surgical intervention. Your doctor may propose:
- Liposuction
During this surgery, only the fat around the breast glands is taken out.
- Mastectomy
During this type of surgery, the breast gland tissue is taken out. Most of the time, only small cuts are needed to do the surgery. This type of surgery is less invasive and takes less time to heal from.
- Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia surgery is a way to reduce the size of the breast tissue in a male at birth. This surgery is also known as reduction mammaplasty and male breast reduction. People with gynecomastia (enlarged male breast tissue) can get help from it.
You can reduce your likelihood of developing gynecomastia by taking certain preventative measures. They consist of things such as the following:
Do not partake in the use of illegal or recreational drugs such as amphetamines, anabolic steroids, androgens, marijuana, heroin, or other similar substances.
Drink no alcohol at all, or drink only in moderation.
Talk to your doctor about the medications you’re now taking. Inquire about other treatment options if you find that you are experiencing symptoms of gynecomastia while taking any of your medications.
Gynecomastia Complications
The condition known as gynecomastia can have an effect on a person’s mental health. It’s possible that you’ll feel ashamed, as well as anxious or depressed. You have options available to you to help you deal with these feelings.
Discuss with your physician how the symptoms of gynecomastia are affecting your quality of life. They are able to make recommendations for mental health professionals who can assist you in managing any mental health issues that you may develop.
Talk things over with your loved ones and those who are close to you.