Gynecomastia Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Gynecomastia or male breasts ( man boobs ) is an enlargement of breast tissue that occurs in men. This condition often occurs especially in men who are overweight or obese. Usually, this condition is normal and not permanent.
This breast enlargement has nothing to do with cancer and will get better on its own. This condition can happen to anyone, from newborns, teenagers, to the elderly. Gynecomastia can occur in one breast or both.
Symptom
Gynecomastia is a dense, firm mass under the nipple in men. Usually 1–2 cm in size. The mass can be painful when touched or pressed. Sometimes it is also accompanied by discharge from the nipples.
Reason
The cause of gynecomastia is the hormone estrogen (female hormone). Nearly 70% of boys will experience it during puberty. It’s normal for this to happen. Gynecomastia at puberty occurs due to changes in the hormones estrogen and testosterone.
Newborns often experience momentary gynecomastia. The cause is the hormone estrogen from the mother which is still in the baby’s body. Middle-aged or elderly men can also experience gynecomastia. Causes include:
- aging or aging process
- antibiotic drug
- medicine for the heart
- anti-anxiety medication
- AIDS medicine
- tricyclic antidepressants
- chemotherapy drugs
- medicine for heartburn
Other causes of gynecomastia include:
- steroid medication
- narcotics such as marijuana, heroin, amphetamines
- consuming excess alcohol
- herbal products containing tea tree or lavender oil
- thyroid gland problems
- Kidney illness
- tumors of glands that control hormones or even breast cancer (rare)
Diagnosis
Gynecomastia can be diagnosed by a doctor from a medical interview to confirm the symptoms that appear. In addition, a physical examination will also be carried out. However, finding the cause of gynecomastia can be quite difficult.
Blood tests, especially hormones, are also needed to find the cause. Examination of a biopsy or sample of breast tissue for examination in the laboratory. Usually, the doctor will consult an endocrinologist (hormone).
Treatment
Gynecomastia usually does not require treatment. Breasts in teenage boys will usually disappear on their own within 2-3 years. If it hurts, you can use an ice pack or medication such as ibuprofen. If gynecomastia is caused by drug use, the breast size will decrease when the drug is stopped.
Doctors can give drugs to control estrogen levels to treat gynecomastia. Surgery or liposuction may also be performed. However, after the procedure, patients still have to maintain a healthy lifestyle such as maintaining a healthy weight.
Prevention
It is important to stay away from drugs and alcohol in addition to avoiding gynecomastia it can also protect the health of the body. A healthy diet and exercise to maintain an ideal body weight can also prevent male breasts.