Breast Pain Diagnosis

While breast pain during menopause is not usually cause for alarm, it is never a bad idea to speak with a doctor about this symptom. Though breast pain is rarely indicant of breast cancer, this is sometimes a woman's first fear. If this is the case, speaking with a doctor to rule out breast cancer can greatly help to allay these worries and help a woman determine how to manage breast tenderness and pain during this major life transition.

When To See a Doctor

In some cases, it can be a good idea for a woman to seek a medical consultation for breast pain, though this is not typically necessary for breast pain in menopause.

For women who have persistent breast pain lasting three or more weeks, breast pain that seems to be getting worse with time, or pain that interferes with daily activities, it is wise to speak with a doctor to rule out rare causes.

A medical evaluation should also be sought if breast pain is affecting one particular area of the breast, discharge is present, the breasts are red, or a new lump is discovered.

Sometimes speaking with a doctor can be the best way for a woman to gain peace of mind about breast pain. Please continue reading to learn more about what to expect during a doctor visit.

For women who seek medical attention for breast pain, the first step after speaking with the doctor is to have a complete clinical and physical breast exam. During this medical exam, a doctor will be looking for unusual areas of the breast, lower neck, underarm, and chest regions. She may look for unusual lumps or signs that may indicate that breast pain originating from an area other than the breast.

In the rare case that a lump is discovered, a woman's doctor may perform a mammography (an x-ray exam of the breast), often done in conjunction with an ultrasound. If these imaging exams elicit evidence of breast lumps, tissue irregularities or tissue thickening, a doctor may recommend a breast biopsy, where a small tissue sample is collected.

LIST OF THE 34 MENOPAUSE SYMPTOMS

Common Symptoms
1. Hot Flashes
2. Night Sweats
3. Irregular Periods
4. Loss of Libido
5. Vaginal Dryness
6. Mood Swings

Changes
7. Fatigue
8. Hair Loss
9. Sleep Disorders
10. Difficulty Concentrating
11. Memory Lapses
12. Dizziness
13. Weight Gain
14. Incontinence
15. Bloating
16. Allergies
17. Brittle Nails
18. Changes in Odor
19. Irregular Heartbeat
20. Depression
21. Anxiety
22. Irritability
23. Panic Disorder

Pains

24. Breast Pain

25. Headaches
26. Joint Pain
27. Burning Tongue
28. Electric Shocks
29. Digestive Problems
30. Gum Problems
31. Muscle Tension
32. Itchy Skin
33. Tingling Extremities

Others
34. Osteoporosis