[25F] Experiencing sharp breast pain and mood swings

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS): This is a common condition that can cause a variety of physical and emotional symptoms, including breast tenderness and mood swings, in the days leading up to a menstrual period. However, your symptoms seem more severe than typical PMS.

  • Treatment: Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management, can help manage PMS symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with physical symptoms. If symptoms are severe, hormonal contraceptives or other medications may be recommended.

• Hormonal imbalance: Hormones regulate many functions in the body, including mood and pain sensitivity. An imbalance in hormones could potentially explain your symptoms.

  • Treatment: Hormonal imbalances can often be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, or hormone therapy.

• Anxiety or depression: These conditions can cause physical symptoms, such as headaches and chest pain, as well as emotional symptoms like mood swings.

  • Treatment: Treatment may include psychotherapy (talk therapy), medications, or both.

• Fibrocystic breast changes: This is a common condition that can cause breast pain and lumpiness. It's most common in women of childbearing age, but can affect women of any age. It may be more noticeable before a menstrual period.

  • Treatment: Over-the-counter pain relievers and wearing a supportive bra can help with symptoms. If symptoms are severe, other treatments may be recommended.

• Mastitis: This is an infection of the breast tissue that results in breast pain, swelling, warmth and redness. You might also have fever and chills.

  • Treatment: Antibiotics are typically used to treat the infection. In some cases, an abscess might need to be drained.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Keep a symptom diary: This can help you track when your symptoms occur and what might be triggering them.
2. Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management can help manage many of the conditions mentioned above.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers: These can help with physical symptoms like breast pain and headaches.
4. Seek medical attention: Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it's important to see a healthcare provider for a formal assessment.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe headache
• Any other severe or concerning symptoms

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.