Why do my aunt’s breasts swell and hurt before she comes?

Chest swelling and pain before menstruation is usually related to fluctuations in hormone levels, breast tissue hyperplasia, or mental factors. The main influencing factors include decreased progesterone levels in the luteal phase, relative dominance of estrogen, abnormal prolactin secretion, excessive mental stress, and breast hyperplasia.

1. Fluctuations in hormone levels

Cyclic changes in estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle can cause breast ducts to dilate. Progesterone levels drop sharply in the late luteal phase, and the relative dominance of estrogen may stimulate breast acinar hyperplasia, causing swelling and pain. This situation is a physiological change and can be relieved by hot compress and massage. If necessary, you can use Xiaoyao Pills, Rupixiao Tablets and other proprietary Chinese medicines as directed by your doctor.

2. Breast tissue hyperplasia

Some women tend to have breast hyperplasia, and gland congestion and edema worsen before menstruation. This is related to increased sensitivity of breast tissue to hormones, which may be accompanied by nodularity or tenderness. It is recommended to wear loose underwear and avoid caffeine intake. Those with obvious symptoms can use Hongjin Xiaojie Capsules, Runing Granules and other drugs as directed by the doctor.

3. Abnormal prolactin

Stress or pituitary microadenomas may cause mild elevations in prolactin and increase the sensitivity of the breast to estrogen. This type of pain often lasts for a long time and may be accompanied by nipple sensitivity. The diagnosis needs to be confirmed by serum prolactin detection, and bromocriptine mesylate tablets can be used to adjust if necessary.

4. Influence of mental factors

Premenstrual anxiety and depression can lower the pain threshold and aggravate discomfort through neuroendocrine regulation. Regular work and rest and aerobic exercise can help relieve stress. In severe cases, cognitive behavioral therapy can be tried, or short-term use of flupentixol-melitracen tablets as directed by a doctor can be used to regulate autonomic nervous function.

5. Pathological changes

In a few cases, it may be related to organic diseases such as breast cysts and fibroadenoma. If the pain persists throughout the menstrual cycle or a clear lump is palpable, a breast ultrasound is required. After diagnosis, you can consider Guizhi Fuling Capsules and other blood-activating and blood-stasis-removing drugs, or minimally invasive surgical resection with Mammotome.

It is recommended to record menstrual cycles and pain patterns, choose support bras without wire rings, and reduce high-salt diet in the week before menstruation. Perform breast circular massage for 10 minutes every day. The water temperature should not exceed 40°C. If the pain affects your life or if an abnormal mass is found, you should go to a breast specialist in time to check for organic diseases. Maintaining moderate exercise and a calm mind can help regulate endocrine balance.