Hormones, the chemical messenger in the body, plays a vital role in regulating many body functions. From appetite to sleep, growth, and reproduction, messages carried by these chemical messengers determine the smooth functioning of the body. Among these hormones, Estrogen is known as the female hormone, and Testosterone is known as the male hormone. Though identified with a specific sex, both the hormones are found in both women and men.

However, the amount may vary. In males higher estrogen levels can cause female traits and most common is enlarged breasts, a condition called gynecomastia. Many men with this condition are reluctant to open up. It may cause severe distress and lead to major psychological problems. What people don’t accept is the fact that it is a common phenomenon associated with the hormonal changes. It is a medical condition and they can always consult a doctor for the treatment.

In males higher estrogen levels can cause female traits and most common is enlarged breasts, a condition called gynecomastia. Many men with this condition are reluctant to open up. It may cause severe distress and lead to major psychological problems.

What is Gynecomastia?

An imbalance of the hormones estrogen and testosterone in males trigger an increase in the breast gland tissue that result in gynecomastia. It can affect one or both breasts.

Usually, gynecomastia is found in newborns, boys going through puberty and in older men due to change in the hormone levels, though other factors can also contribute.

• Gynecomastia in infants : It is estimated that more than half of male infants are born with enlarged breasts as estrogen from mother is passed on to the new-borns. Generally in two to three weeks the breast gland tissue reduces and becomes normal.
• Gynecomastia during puberty :  Gynecomastia is also common during puberty for males as the body undergoes hormone changes. Most cases medical attention is not required and it becomes normal within six months to two years.
• Gynecomastia in adults: Studies have shown that in older men particularly between 60-80 years gynecomastia is common and usually without any symptoms.

When to consult a doctor?

Usually, gynecomastia go away on its own but if there is any symptoms such as pain or discharge from nipple, one has to consult a doctor. It can be treated by medication and may require gynecomastia surgery in some cases. Don’t be embarrassed to consult a good doctor nearby if you feel uncomfortable about your breast size.

Consult a doctor if you have complications such as

• Swelling in breasts
• Pain or tenderness in breasts
• Nipple discharge in one or both breasts

Common Causes

Most common causes is natural hormone changes and in most such cases it goes on its own. But there are other causes like adverse effects of various medication like anti-androgens used to treat an enlarged prostate, prostate cancer, use of steroids, anti-anxiety medications and sometimes even certain antibiotics. Use of recreational drugs and prolonged use of alcohol are also contributing factors. You have to consult a doctor if any symptoms exists. Common causes are:

• Natural Hormone changes
• Adverse effect of medications
• Use of anabolic steroids used to build muscles and athletic performance
• Use of recreational drugs, and alcohol
• Health conditions such as tumors, hyperthyroidism, kidney failure, liver disease etc
• Malnutrition
• Aging

Diagnosis and Treatment for gynecomastia

During diagnosis, your doctor will assess symptoms and a physical exam is performed. Your medical and family history is also reviewed. A blood test to check hormone levels may also be conducted.

What if you delay consulting a doctor

Both gynecomastia and breast cancer cause breast lumps and health professionals advice to consult a doctor to rule out any complications. A doctor may advice breast ultrasound or mammogram to rule out malignancy or unusual growth.

Well, for those looking for a perfect chest, breast reduction surgery is safe and easy option. During this procedure, a plastic surgeon removes extra breast tissue. The procedure takes 30-40 minutes, is safe and scarless.