GYNECOMASTIA ( BREAST ENLARGEMENT IN MALE)

Gynecomastia is a condition where males have abnormally enlarged breasts, due to increased proliferation of breast tissues.

Causes:

All men have both androgen and estrogen hormones, that is male and female hormones. When there is an alteration in androgens and estrogens balance then it results in Gynecomastia.

• Hormones (androgens, anabolic steroids, estrogen agonists)
• Anti-ulcer medications such as cimetidine
• Antibiotics (isoniazid, ketoconazole, metronidazole)
• Cardiovascular drugs, such as captopril and digitoxin
• Cancer chemotherapeutics for prostrate cancer.
• Psychoactive agents, such as diazepam and tricyclic antidepressants

Symptoms:

• Enlargement of male breast
• Tenderness and sensitivity may be present

Diagnosis:

• Physical examination
• Past medical history
• Mammogram in case of cancer suspicion

Social impact:

Gynecomastia may not be considered a serious medical condition, however, it has great impact on the mind of the person having it. Low self-esteem may lead to poor social networking, which may lead to some sort of anxiety and depression in some patients.

Treatment for Gynecomastia:

Treatment for Gynecomastia depends on the cause of the Gynecomastia. The underlying cause has to be taken into consideration for the treatment.

• In pubertal cases, one should wait and watch as condition resolves by itself.
• If it is drug induced, then offending medications should be stopped.
• Surgery, for cosmetic reason and when there is pain and tenderness

Homeopathic approach for Gynecomastia:

Homeopathy has excellent results in gynecomastia.