Causes, symptoms and ways of treating gynecomastia in men

Due to a violation in the body of the hormonal balance in men, hypertrophy of adipose tissue can occur, which leads to an increase in mammary glands - rudimentary organs consisting of short ducts, glandular tissue, nipple.

The functioning of these organs occurs in the presence of estrogens and prolactin. In the male body, the number of estrogens is extremely small, because these are female hormones, and any excess liver immediately eliminates them. However, if for some reason the number of estrogens exceeds the norm, the masculine breasts begin to grow like women, which leads to the appearance of gynecomastia in men.

But an excess of estrogen is not the only cause of this condition. If prolactin is produced by the pituitary gland in excessive amounts, the fat gland is deposited in the mammary gland and the connective tissue rapidly grows. As a result, the breast glands become denser and larger.

So, the causes of gynecomastia in men are:

• Violation of the ratio in the body of testosterone and estrogens, which happens due to malfunctions in the functioning of the sexual glands, testicular, adrenal, stomach tumors;
• Increased production of prolactin due to pituitary tumor;
• Diseases associated with metabolic disorders, such as diabetes mellitus;
• Taking medications that provoke an increase in the production of estrogens and prolactin.

Signs of pathology

The increase in the mammary glands in diameter is the main sign of gynecomastia in men. Together with this, the nipples and surrounding areoles increase. Exceptions from the nipples can be seen , although this happens rarely. Perhaps a feeling of discomfort in the area of the mammary glands and an increase in the sensitivity of the nipples. If at the same time with the listed symptoms in the mammary glands appear seals, there are spotting, lymph nodes increase in the armpits, you should immediately visit the doctor. After all, these signs can indicate not only about gynecomastia in men, but also about breast cancer.

Diagnostics

To accurately determine the presence of pathology, external examination is not enough. Conduct blood tests to detect the amount of prolactin, testosterone, urea, creatinine and other substances and hormones in it. In addition, CT, ultrasound and other studies can be performed.

Gynecomastia in men: treatment

The method of treatment is selected depending on the causes of the pathological process. So, if the gynecomastia is provoked by taking medications, they are simply canceled, and the condition is normalized by itself. If hormonal changes are associated with an increase in estrogen, prescribe a medication that lowers their level. In the case when some drugs can not get rid of the problem does not work, it may be recommended the removal of gynecomastia in men. The price of such a procedure in different clinics is different, and the operation itself consists in eliminating excess tissues and fatty deposits in the mammary gland zone.