What are the most common causes of sore nipples?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and am sorry for the discomfort you are having.

I saw the picture you have attached (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity).

In one of the pictures, there is a slight enlargement contour of the left breast with mild, faint erythema in the surrounding area. In the other picture taken from the front view, I could not appreciate the swelling contour. Looking at the picture, it may be gynecomastia (I am not sure), but imaging tests would be needed to confirm it.

Gynecomastia is defined clinically by the presence of a rubbery or firm mass extending concentrically from the nipples. There is a proliferation of the glandular component of the breast. Pseudo-gynecomastia also appears like this, but mostly in obese individuals. In pseudo-gynecomastia, there is fat deposition without glandular proliferation.

Your age is not mentioned in the query, but looking at the picture, I guess it is around 55. Enlarged breasts are more common in men over 50, but a medical evaluation becomes essential if there is any tenderness, swelling, or discharge from the nipple. You have mentioned pain around the nipple area for five days only. Is there any discharge from either nipple? If it is gynecomastia, the cause is multifactorial but mainly related to an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone hormones. It can also result from medications to treat depression and blood pressure.

I would suggest the following:

• Please visit a local doctor for a physical examination to differentiate between pseudo-gynecomastia and gynecomastia.
• Imaging modalities like ultrasonograms may be needed to help in the diagnosis.
• Review your current medications.
• Blood tests to check hormone levels.

I hope you find my reply helpful and guiding. Please answer the above question and follow up if you have any further related queries about it.

Thank you.