Are you worried because of your breast pain? Breast pain, also called mastalgia or mastodynia, affects roughly 70% of women at some point in their life. Sometimes, a sharp breast pain referred to as chest wall pain that’s actually coming from deep down in your chest is felt. The upcoming menstrual period might be the cause for it. Breast pain does not always mean breast cancer, unlike the popular belief. However, you should visit a doctor and get things clarified if you feel a few lumps in your breast that won’t go away along with soreness of breasts.

Breast pain is manageable and will go away quickly with a few lifestyle modifications generally. However, even though the pain may subside, it can be painful, leaving us searching for remedies to get relief from it. So, are you searching for a quick remedy for breast pain? While it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns about breast pain, there are several natural remedies you can explore at home to ease the discomfort. These remedies are easy to follow and can provide significant relief. We surely have a list of a few for you to try. Read the blog to understand the causes, types and symptoms of breast pain.

Causes of Breast Pain

Breast engorgement can be incredibly uncomfortable for new mothers. Fortunately, there are several home remedies that can provide relief. For breast engorgement relief, applying a warm compress or taking a warm shower can help to alleviate the discomfort. Gentle massage and expressing milk can also provide relief by reducing swelling and improving milk flow. When it comes to breastfeeding nipple pain, using lanolin cream or coconut oil can soothe soreness and promote healing.

Additionally, ensuring proper latch and positioning during breastfeeding can prevent further discomfort. Remember, while these home remedies can offer relief, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if the pain persists or worsens.

Breast pain can stem from a variety of sources ranging from hormonal fluctuations to physical strain. Common causes include:

1. Hormonal changes: Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal contraceptives can lead to hormonal changes that may cause breast pain.
2. Breast structure: Conditions like fibrocystic breasts, which are characterized by lumpy or rope-like breast tissue, can also lead to discomfort.
3. Medications: Certain medications, such as those for hypertension or antidepressants, might contribute to breast pain.
4. Breast surgery: Pain following surgical procedures, whether cosmetic or medical, is common.
5. Improper fitting bras: Ill-fitting bras that do not provide adequate support can lead to pain due to strain on breast tissue.

Identifying the underlying cause is crucial as it helps in directing the type of relief strategy to employ.

Types of Breast Pain

Breast pain is generally categorized into two types:

1. Cyclical breast pain: it is more intense before menstruation begins, and often diminishes once the period starts.
2. Non-cyclical breast pain: It is not related to the menstrual cycle and can be more unpredictable. It might be localized to one area and could be constant or intermittent.

Understanding these types can help in monitoring and managing the pain effectively.

Symptoms of Breast Pain

Although the above-stated causes lead to Breast pain, it can be of different kinds and will differ depending on whether you have cyclic or noncyclic breast pain. If it’s cyclic breast pain, you will feel breast heaviness, soreness and tenderness. A swelling might be there in the breast whose severity may differ.  The pain may even spread to the shoulder and armpits from your breasts. In case of non-cyclic breast pain, you might experience a sharper and more acute (severe) pain in your breast. The breast pain will be limited to one specific area feeling like a burn or a stab in a specific breast area. The symptoms of non-cyclic breast pain may stay for a long time or may come and go over time.

Impact of Exercise on Breast Health

Regular exercise can help in reducing breast pain through various mechanisms:

• The blood circulation is improved which helps in the efficient removal of toxins from the body.
• Physical activity helps in regulating the hormone levels, which can reduce the occurrence of cyclic breast pain.
• The reduction in the body fat decreases the production of certain hormones that may trigger breast pain.
• Simple exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga can be effective with the aid of supportive sports bras to avoid discomfort during these activities.

Adopting these lifestyle changes  enhances overall health and well-being, easing breast pain as well.

Home Remedies for Breast Pain

Although your breast pain may go away with your periods, we still have a few natural remedies that can be tried for breast pain and you can choose whichever suits you best.

1. Kalonji

Nigella sativa or fennel flower seeds known as kalonji contain many bioactive compounds from which essential oil is obtained. The studies show the effectiveness of essential oil obtained from kalonji in managing breast pain. It has been shown that when kalonji oil and paraffin are mixed in water and honey, it might effectively relieve breast pain. Kalonji seeds can also relieve breast pain when you drink its powder mixed in water and honey.

2. Evening Primrose

Evening primrose oil is renowned for its effectiveness in dealing with breast pain, medically known as mastalgia. Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a type of omega-6 fatty acid, evening primrose oil can help balance your hormones and reduce inflammation. To use, simply take an evening primrose oil supplement as directed on the packaging. Many women start to notice improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks. It’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

3. Orange Skin Essential Oil

The oil of orange skin (Citrus sinensis) contains many components which might have beneficial therapeutic effects on the central nervous system like pain reduction, muscle relaxation and mood elevation. A study showed that consumption of orange skin essential oil over time could reduce the effects of PMS on the body.3 Therefore, it can be used as a remedy to get relief from breast pain. In a cup of warm water, you can add a few drops of orange skin essential oil and drink it. To reap its beneficial effects for breast pain, you might have to diligently follow the remedy. However, it is better to consult a doctor if the pain persists or the condition worsens.

4. Soothing Effects of Chamomile

Chamomile is often celebrated for its calming properties, but it’s also helpful in alleviating breast pain due to its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects. Drinking chamomile tea regularly can help reduce stress and soothe the body, indirectly relieving breast pain. For a more direct application, a warm chamomile tea bag can be applied to tender areas, providing a gentle, soothing effect.

5. Easing Discomfort with Flaxseed

Flaxseed offers a powerhouse of nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for reducing inflammation. The lignans found in flaxseed are also known to help regulate estrogen levels, which can directly impact breast pain. You can incorporate flaxseed into your diet by adding ground flaxseed to smoothies, yogurts, or cereals. Alternatively, flaxseed oil can be used in salad dressings or taken as a supplement for a condensed dose of its benefits.

Conclusion

Finding relief from breast pain doesn’t always mean a trip to the pharmacy or a call to your doctor. Quite often, natural and home remedies can offer significant relief and are worth considering. These remedies, from applying cold or warm compresses to incorporating more flaxseed into your diet, are easy, accessible, and gentle on your body. They not only help to alleviate discomfort but also empower you to take control of your body’s reactions in a proactive, health-conscious way. Embrace these gentle, natural remedies and feel better, naturally!

Remember, while these solutions are effective for minor or occasional breast pain, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent pain.

Dr Rajeev Agarwal has over 40 years of expertise in treating breast cancer in Gurgaon. He has handled an extensive number of challenging breast cancer patients in Delhi’s top hospitals. Dr Rajeev Agarwal’s patient-centred approach and empathy make patients comfortable. Along with patient screening and counselling, Dr Rajeev patiently explains the possible risk factors and details to all his patients which takes off a lot of anxiety that comes with the diagnosis. He is highly skilled and has extreme precision in the detection and diagnosis of breast pain treatment in addition to his speciality in breast conservation surgery. Dr Rajeev has experience in counselling patients and reassuring them alongside making the accurate diagnosis.