Breast pain

Breast pain ( mastodynia , mastalgia ) is a common symptom - occurs in 70 to 80 % of women some time in their lives 2nd commonest reason ( 1st is a lump ) for which a woman seeks help -for breast related issues ( even in older age group ) Breast pain is rarely associated with breast cancer○ number quoted varies from 1 % to 0.5 % ( Normal breast examination and with only breast pain )○ causes significant anxiety and fear in women who relate to and are convinced they have breast cancer Severe pain can affect QOL- particularly○ sleep patterns○ sexual activity○ physical activity○ work , school and social activity A study has shown that breast pain is○ typically reported by older women○ those with large breast cup sizes○ those who self reported lower activity and fitness Accounts for upto 50 %-referrals to breast OP clinics Usually self limiting Most women would be managed by reassurance and simple drugs

large breasts age 30-50 yrs ill fitting bras medications ( see below ) other possible risk factors includeolder age , stress , caffeine , smoking , incd frequency of lactation and h/o Ca breast

Approach-Take a detailed history...