Gynecomastia
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Gynecomastia
is enlarged breast tissue or glands in men or boys. The enlargement is from an imbalance between testosterone (male hormone) and estrogen (female hormone). One or both breasts may be affected. Gynecomastia may be a sign of a serious disease that needs to be treated.
Common symptoms include the following:
- Breast tenderness or pain
- Enlarged areola (area around your nipple)
- Fluid coming out of the nipple, usually in babies
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have breast pain or soreness that is not helped with medicine.
- The skin around your nipples is peeling from rubbing against your clothing.
- You feel depressed or embarrassed about your condition.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment for gynecomastia
may not be needed. Symptoms in babies and teenagers may go away without treatment. Your provider may treat any medical condition or change any medicine that caused your gynecomastia. You may need medicines to help balance your hormone levels or to decrease pain. Surgery may be used to reduce breast tissue if other treatments do not work.
Manage your symptoms:
A cold compress may help relieve pain or soreness. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel and apply it to your breasts as often and for as long as directed.
Prevent gynecomastia:
- Do not use illegal drugs. Ask your provider for information if you need help quitting.
- Limit or do not drink alcohol as directed. A drink of alcohol is 12 ounces of beer, 1½ ounces of liquor, or 5 ounces of wine.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Ask your provider how much you should weigh. Ask him or her to help you create a weight loss plan if you are overweight.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed.
You may need to come in every 3 to 6 months or until your symptoms stop. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
