Men With Breasts: Normal?

After the fourteenth week of pregnancy, the male foetus starts to produce the male hormone testosterone. Before functioning of this hormone starts, nipples are already developed. Thus both male and female foetus has nipples. But development of significant breasts, called gynecomastia, may occur at a very later stage in life.

Puberty Breasts

The fluctuation in the hormones during puberty may make the chest look little heavy. This is because the male hormone, testosterone, is not secreted continuously. The little amount of estrogen circulating takes charge and hence the breasts enlarge.

Over a period of time, as testosterone levels become sufficient in the body, the breasts start to shrink. Hence it is normal to develop little breasts during puberty in males.

Complications

Cysts, usually benign, may occur on male breasts in the form of a visible lump that appears like a grape. These lumps may or may not carry fluids. In case of excess pain, the physician may drain the fluid from the lump.

If the nipples appear red and cracked, it could be Runner`s nipple. It is a condition caused due to irritation due to some cloth fiber, etc. Antibiotic ointments are helpful in treating the infection and irritation.

Soft cotton clothes must be worn. Sweat during gyming cause increase in the irritation hence care must be taken that the area is not rubbed. Application of petroleum jelly may help. Occurrence of painless lumps suggests cancer. A condition called as fibriadenomas, non-cancerous, may also develop.

Consumption of certain medicines and hormonal therapies may disrupt the balance of the hormones inside the body. Consult your doctor in case you see sudden enlargement in your breast tissues. Sudden tenderness in nipples and breasts must not be ignored.

Care

Since the hormone testosterone plays a critical role care must be taken to maintain its constant production in the body. The production decreases due to weight gain, high blood pressure, diabetes and stress.

Studies confirm that men with an increased weight, especially around the waist line, have decreased levels of testosterone and this gradually contributes in development of male breasts.

A simple way of keeping the problem at bay is to maintain a healthy lifestyle which includes eating right and doing exercises regularly.