Simple Self-Care Remedies for Breast Pain at Home

Breast pain which is termed as ‘Mastalgia’, is something that is experienced by every woman at some point in their life. 

Various hormones create changes in breast tissue during the menstrual cycle, which can cause pain or discomfort in women. While breasts do not usually hurt, they can be painful at times, and this can be really stressful to deal with. Typically, breast pain is classified as either cyclical or non-cyclical. A quick remedy for breast pain can help you get rid of the breast pain allowing you to continue your day without any stress. 

Best Remedies for Breast Pain At Home

Some of the best remedies for dealing with breast pain at home are – 

1. Castor Oil – From hormonal changes to breastfeeding, there are multiple reasons behind breast pain. The use of castor oil is one of the best ways to deal with breast pain. It is a proven method. Place a clean towel soaked in castor oil over the breast. Place another clean, dry towel on top of it, and then a heating pad on top of that. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer if you have the opportunity. Repeating this daily for 3-4 days in a row can help you get rid of breast pain.

2. Massage – A simple massage acts as a quick remedy for breast pain during breastfeeding. When you are taking a shower, soap the paining breast and gently massage it. This works towards getting rid of the pain by increasing the blood circulation and draining lymph which is a fluid that carries infection-fighting agents of the body.

3. Ice – Wrap an ice cube bag in a towel and apply to each sore breast for about 10 minutes. Cold-pack therapy is one of the best ways to reduce breast pain as it helps to minimize swelling and soreness of breasts.

4. Soy-Based Foods – When you are suffering from breast pain, increasing the intake of soy or soy-based foods is recommended to reduce breast pain. Soy includes phytoestrogens, which are hormone-like substances that can affect hormonal swings associated with menstruation and menopause, which are sometimes the cause behind breast pain. Soy nuts and other types of soy-based foods can be easily incorporated into your daily meals. Another good source is soy milk, which you can include in your daily fruit smoothies. 

5. Fibre Foods – Consumption of fibre-rich foods is important when suffering from sore breasts. Various studies have indicated that women who consume fibre-rich foods produce more estrogen, which helps against breast pain and soreness. It is also important to cut down on fats. Breast discomfort is less common in women who live in societies where low-fat diets are the norm.

6. Cutting Down on Methylxanthine and Sodium – Common foods such as coffee, cola, tea, wine, beer, cheese, chocolates, mushrooms, pickles, and cheese have a high content of methylxanthine compound. Most women who suffer from breast pain on a cyclical basis will feel better if they reduce or avoid meals that have a high content of this compound. Cutting on sodium is also important as sodium increases water retention capabilities of the body which leads to swelling of breasts, causing pain.

7. Dandelion – The herb acts as a quick remedy for breast pain treatment at home and can be taken in the form of capsules. You can mix this herb with your daily tea, and consuming 3-4 cups daily can help you get rid of breast pain and swelling.

8. Yoga – Not only can yoga help you get rid of breast pain, but it also helps you maintain your health. There are many different yoga poses and ayurvedic oils and balms which can help you get rid of breast pain.

9. Vitamins – Vitamins are critical when it comes to your health. Vitamin B6 and Vitamin E have properties that work towards reducing breast pain and tenderness. While supplements of these vitamins are necessary, you may increase your vitamin intake by eating almonds, and wheat germ for vitamin E. Consumption of foods such as meat and spinach can increase your dosage of vitamin B6. 

10. Cycle Of Rinse – If the breast is paining from breastfeeding, do not wash them with soap. Just simply rinse them in water. Soap dries out the nipples. Nipples make their own antibacterial oils, so they do not have to wash them with soap or any other kind of liquid to maintain sanity. 

Other Causes of Breast Pain

Breast pain can be caused by multiple factors such as –

• Diet – Breast pain might be worsened by the foods eaten on a regular basis. Breast discomfort is more common in women who consume poor diets heavy in fat and refined carbohydrates.
• Breast Size – Surgeries for breast enlargement can also be a cause of breast pain. It is very important to follow proper medications and medical guidance after such surgeries if you experience breast pain from them. 
• Medications – Medications for diseases and issues can also cause breast pain. Breast discomfort and pain can be caused by antidepressants, hormone treatment, antibiotics, and heart disease drugs. It is important to consult a doctor before taking these medications.
• Smoking – Smoking can be a major cause of breast pain. Epinephrine levels in breast tissue have been shown to rise as a result of smoking. Smoking should be avoided to reduce breast pain. 
• Irritation – Irritation in the chest, arms, and back muscles can also cause breast pain for women. When suffering from breast pain, it is important to take some rest and not engage in serious activities. 

Conclusion

Breast pain and tenderness are something that you should not ignore. They can also be signs of serious health diseases. In many cases, high anxiety levels make the breast pain even worse. It is recommended to go for therapy which reduces stress levels. There are several home treatments for breast discomfort that can successfully alleviate swelling and soreness. However, in case of prolonged or burning pain at a specific spot, you should immediately seek proper medical attention and care. You do not want to make things worse.