Gynecomastia is a medical condition that affects males, typically between the ages of 12 and 25. It is characterized by enlarged male breast tissue caused by an imbalance of hormones. Although it is not life-threatening, gynecomastia can be painful and cause psychological distress. Let’s take a closer look at this condition.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia occurs when the level of the male hormone testosterone drops relative to estrogen, which is a female hormone. This disparity can be caused by an underlying medical condition such as an endocrine disorder, kidney failure, liver disease, or hypogonadism (a condition in which the body does not produce enough testosterone). Other known causes include certain medications and illegal drug use.
How Is Gynecomastia Diagnosed?
In order to diagnose gynecomastia, your doctor may perform physical exams and lab tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. They will also ask questions about your health history and any medications you are taking or have taken in the past. In some cases, imaging tests such as ultrasound or mammography may also be used to confirm the diagnosis.
How Is Gynecomastia Treated?
The treatment for gynecomastia depends on its underlying cause. If it is caused by an underlying medical condition, then treating that condition should help reduce symptoms of gynecomastia. Additionally, certain medications may be prescribed to help balance hormones and reduce breast tissue growth. In severe cases where other treatments do not work, surgery may be recommended to remove excess breast tissue.
All in all, gynecomastia is a common medical condition that affects males between 12 and 25 years old due to an imbalance of hormones in their bodies. While it is usually not life-threatening, it can cause physical pain as well as psychological distress. The best way to treat this condition is to identify and address its underlying cause—which could range from lifestyle factors to an endocrine disorder—as soon as possible so that appropriate treatment can begin right away. For men who are concerned about this issue, talking with their doctor should always be their first step towards finding relief from their symptoms and restoring hormonal balance in their bodies once again.