What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is an increase in the amount of breast gland tissue in boys or men, caused by an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and testosterone.
Gynecomastia can affect one or both breasts, sometimes unevenly.
Generally, gynecomastia isn't a serious problem, but it can be tough to cope with the condition. Men and boys with gynecomastia sometimes have pain in their breasts and may feel embarrassed.
Treatment
Gynecomastia may go away on its own. If it persists, medication or surgery may help.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of gynecomastia include:
- Swollen breast tissue
- Breast tenderness
Causes
Gynecomastia is triggered by a decrease in the amount of the hormone testosterone compared with estrogen.
The decrease can be caused by conditions that block the effects of testosterone, reduce testosterone or increase your estrogen level.
The hormones testosterone and estrogen control sex characteristics in both men and women. Testosterone controls male traits, such as muscle mass and body hair. Estrogen controls female traits, including the growth of breasts.
Most people think of estrogen as an exclusively female hormone, but men also produce it — though normally in small quantities. Male estrogen levels that are too high or are out of balance with testosterone levels can cause gynecomastia.
Gynecomastia in infants
More than half of male infants are born with enlarged breasts due to the effects of their mother's estrogen. Generally, the swollen breast tissue goes away within two to three weeks after birth.
Gynecomastia during puberty
Gynecomastia caused by hormone changes during puberty is relatively common. In most cases, the swollen breast tissue will go away without treatment within six months to two years.
Gynecomastia in adults
The prevalence of gynecomastia peaks again between the ages of 50 and 69. At least 1 in 4 men in this age group is affected.
A number of medications can cause gynecomastia. As we read in the article, gynecomastia can also develop due to vegetable oils (tree tea or lavender), which are included in shampoos, soaps or lotions.
Several health conditions can cause gynecomastia by affecting the normal balance of hormones. These include:
- Hypogonadism.
- Tumors.
- Hyperthyroidism.
- Kidney failure.
- Liver failure and cirrhosis.
- Malnutrition and starvation. (A ration that does not consist of foods rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals).
Complications
Gynecomastia has few physical complications, but it can cause psychological or emotional problems caused by appearance.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gynecomastia/symptoms-causes/syc-20351793
