Gynecomastia: What You Need to Know
Gynecomastia, often referred to as “man boobs,” is a condition that causes the enlargement of male breast tissue. It’s a surprisingly common condition, affecting up to 60% of men at some point in their lives.
While not usually a serious medical concern, gynecomastia can cause significant emotional distress and impact men’s self-esteem. This blog post aims to shed light on gynecomastia, exploring its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and ways to cope with the emotional impact.
What causes gynecomastia?
The primary cause of gynecomastia is an imbalance in hormone levels, specifically an increase in estrogen or a decrease in testosterone. This imbalance can occur due to:
- Puberty: During puberty, hormonal fluctuations are common, and boys may experience temporary gynecomastia. This typically resolves within a few years.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as steroids, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety drugs, can list gynecomastia as a side effect.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as liver disease, kidney failure, and tumors, can affect hormone levels and lead to gynecomastia.
- Weight gain: Excess body fat can convert testosterone into estrogen, potentially contributing to gynecomastia.
- Age: As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline, which can lead to gynecomastia in some cases
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What are the symptoms of gynecomastia?
The main symptom of gynecomastia is the enlargement of breast tissue. This enlargement can be:
- Tender or painful
- Uneven
- Located beneath the nipple
- Accompanied by nipple discharge (rare)
