Living with Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is swelling in the breast of boys and men. This swelling is usually caused by a shift in hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. Sometimes only one breast is affected while other times both breasts will be affected. Gynecomastia can occur in infants and newborns all the way up to older men. However it is normally not a problem but may create a feeling of low self-esteem for cosmetic reasons. Sometimes Gynecomastia goes away without any treatment. Other times it may be necessary to seek treatment.
Symptoms of Gynecomastia
Some symptoms include breast tenderness and enlarged or swollen breast gland tissue. You may also notice tenderness, a discharge from the nipples, pain, or swelling of the breasts. Most of the time, you can disguise the swelling by wearing a baggy shirt or a muscle shirt underneath your shirt.
Sometimes the symptoms can overwhelm you and treatment must be found. Dr. Pillai knows what treatment will work best with this condition.
Because Gynecomastia is caused by an imbalance of hormones, you may experience other changes that are noticeable as well. There are a number of different medications that may be causing Gynecomastia and these include any anti-androgens, AIDS medications, Anabolic steroids, Anti-anxiety medications, Tricyclic antidepressants, ulcer medication, heart medication, and chemotherapy. Alcohol and powerful drugs such as Heroin, Marijuana, amphetamines, and methadone could also cause Gynecomastia.
Dr. Pillai may order a few tests to rule out any other disease or condition when diagnosing Gynecomastia. Dr. Pillai will recommend some blood work and a mammogram. In addition, Dr. Pillai may also recommend a tissue biopsy, testicular ultrasound, an MRI, CT, or chest x-rays. These are just a few of the tests that may be ordered. If Dr. Pillai finds reason for more testing it will be discussed during the consultation.
Treatment may include not doing anything until it is necessary. Gynecomastia can be lived with and experience no pain. However if Gynecomastia is caused by something else, you may need to seek different treatment depending on what Dr. Pillai recommends.
Surgery options for Gynecomastia include liposuction to remove the fat deposits in the breast or a mastectomy which removes the breast gland tissues, Men have a difficult time adjusting to Gynecomastia. It may be painful or uncomfortable to deal with especially if you need to take your shirt off to go swimming or for other reasons. If you are experiencing problems with Gynecomastia, call Dr. Pillai and schedule a consultation today.
For more information about Gynecomastia contact Dr. Pillai today.
