5 Common Causes of Pain Under the Right Breast Overview
Last Updated: March 19, 2024
Published By: MediFind Medical Staff
What causes pain under the right breast?
Pain under the right breast can happen from a strain, injury, infection, or hormonal changes during a menstrual cycle. It can also be a symptom of a more serious health condition. MediFind shares potential causes of pain under the right breast below.
Talk to your provider if the pain gets worse, does not go away, or is interfering with daily activities. Learn more about how MediFind works here. You can also enter your symptoms into MediFind’s Symptom Checker to receive customized results.
Cyclical Mastalgia
Cyclical mastalgia is a common type of breast pain that is connected to the menstrual cycle. It is usually related to hormone changes. The pain often begins around the time of ovulation, which happens about a week before you get your period. For some people, the pain is barely noticeable. For others, it can be very severe. The pain may be felt in one breast or both, or it may be felt in the underarm area. Cyclical mastalgia can be managed with certain medications and lifestyle changes. In some cases, supplemental hormones and hormone blockers may be prescribed. Primary care doctors and gynecologists can treat cyclical mastalgia. Find a doctor nearby here.
Fibroadenoma
Fibroadenoma is a lump in the breast from a benign tumor. Benign means it is not cancer. Fibroadenomas are most common in people assigned female at birth. They tend to appear between the ages of 20-40, but they can happen at any age. Fibroadenomas vary in size and shape. They can be moved under the skin without pain. A person can have one or many fibroadenomas. Your doctor will perform a breast biopsy or an imaging scan to properly diagnose fibroadenoma. Fibroadenomas may be left in place if the doctor is certain the lump is not cancerous. It is important for people with fibroadenomas to have regular breast exams to make sure they aren’t growing. If you feel a lump in your breast, please see your primary care physician right away. Find one near you here.
Mastitis
Mastitis is when your breast becomes swollen and painful due to an infection. It usually happens when an individual is breastfeeding. But it can happen at other times as well. White blood cells are released to help fight the infection. This can lead to swelling and increased blood flow. The infected part of the breast might become swollen, look red, or feel warm to the touch. It may also cause fever, headaches, or flu-like symptoms. It can help to apply warm compresses to the swollen area. Your doctor might prescribe antibiotics, if needed. A specialist in women’s health, called an obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN), can provide care. Find a nearby OB/GYN here.
Gastroesophageal Reflux
Sometimes gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can feel like breast pain. GERD happens when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This is known as acid reflux. Acid reflux can cause heartburn, which is a burning sensation in the chest. If you experience acid reflux and heartburn on a regular basis, it could be a sign of GERD. Lifestyle changes, weight management, and avoiding certain drugs can help ease symptoms. Over-the-counter antacids offer short-term relief. Prescription medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine H2-receptor antagonists (H2 blockers) help longer term by reducing stomach acid. Gastroenterologists treat GERD. Find one nearby here.
Costochondritis
All our ribs, except the lowest two, are connected to our breastbone (sternum) by cartilage. When this cartilage becomes painful or inflamed, it is called costochondritis, or chest wall pain. The most common symptoms of costochondritis are pain and tenderness in the chest. You may feel sharp pain at the front of your chest wall that increases when you take a deep breath or cough. What causes costochondritis tends to vary. It may be due to a chest injury, heavy lifting, or viral infections such as upper respiratory infection. Costochondritis usually goes away on its own after a few days or weeks. Treatment focuses on pain relief. This can include over-the-counter medicines or prescribed medications. In some cases, your provider may recommend physical therapy. Primary care doctors can treat costochondritis. Find one near you here.
Other possible causes may include:
Understanding the Results
Use our Symptom Checker to add your information and get your custom results.
Differences in Age Groups
Causes can vary among age groups depending on medical history and individual health factors.
Differences among Men and Women
Only individuals who were assigned female at birth can experience cyclical mastalgia due to its connection with the menstruation cycle. Fibroadenomas are most common in people assigned female at birth but can happen to both genders.
Disclaimer
MediFind provides content for informational purposes only. MediFind does not provide medical advice. This content should not replace a health care professional’s medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Contact a licensed health care provider with any questions about your own health. Contact 911 in the event of a medical emergency.