Gynecomastia, or Man Boobs, is not just an aesthetic issue. It is a real worrying problem for many men and is classified as a medical condition. Gynecomastia is clinically defined as a benign proliferation of glandular tissue in men.
Gynecomastia is triggered by hormonal imbalance, where there is a decrease in testosterone compared with estrogen.
Testosterone controls male traits such as muscle mass, body hair etc, whereas estrogen controls female traits such as the growth of the breasts. Men produce estrogen in small quantities, but when estrogen levels are out of balance with testosterone levels, this leads to gynecomastia.
Adolescent gynecomastia, which is caused by hormone changes during puberty) is common. Adult gynecomastia is prevalent amongst men ages 50 and above.
Following are some of the medications that can cause gynecomastia:
• Anti-androgens that are used to treat prostate cancer or enlarged prostate
• Androgens to treat hormone deficiencies
• HIV medications
• ADHD medications such as Adderall
• Anti-anxiety medication such as Valium & tricyclic antidepressants
• Heart medication such as Digoxin and calcium channel blockers
• The use of recreational/illicit drugs, anabolic steroids, excessive alcohol intake, and certain supplements can also cause gynecomastia
Klinefelter syndrome, ageing, tumours, hyperthyroidism, liver failure and cirrhosis, kidney failure and malnutrition may result in hormonal imbalance, leading to the development of gynecomastia.
• Pain, especially in adolescent gynecomastia
• Swollen breast tissue
• Breast tenderness
• Nipple sensitivity, for example, when nipples rub against clothes
To determine if you are truly suffering from gynecomastia, you should seek a medical examination from a doctor who is experienced in treating gynecomastia.
Gynecomastia surgery is the only clinically proven solution to resolve it effectively as it permanently removes enlarged glandular and excess fat tissues. Achieve a defined and contoured male chest today.