What are the different types of breast pain?

Aurora Health Care

There are two types of breast pain:

Cyclical breast pain is the most common type of breast pain and usually occurs before a woman's period. It may be related to hormone changes during the menstrual cycle. It is described as a dull, heavy, or aching pain that may extend into the underarm. The breast may feel tender, sore, and swollen.
Noncyclical breast pain is usually described as burning, aching, or sore pain. This type of breast pain most often occurs in only one breast and tends to be in one specific area (localized). Less commonly, the pain may occur in both breasts and extend into the underarm area.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Pain

Pain is your body telling you that you have hurt it. This is a good thing, important when you are injured. It can also help diagnose problems with your body. Sometimes pain continues long after it's necessary. Amputees report phantom pain in the legs or arms they no longer have. There are different kinds of pain, and describing the type is useful in diagnosis: recurring, constant, steady, knife-like, radiating, sharp, dull. Medicines that dull pain are analgesics. Those that kill all feeling are anesthetics.

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