What causes swollen and painful nipples?

Breasts are important organs for women and have the important function of feeding babies. In daily life, some women experience swollen and painful nipples, but they don’t know what causes swollen and painful nipples. There are many reasons for these symptoms of nipples. It may be caused by changes in the surrounding hair follicles or abnormal sucking of the baby. It may also be diseased nipple cancer. If you have symptoms of swollen and painful nipples, you must go to the hospital for examination.

Breasts are important female organs that help nurture the healthy growth of babies. In fact, the appearance of the breasts can reveal a lot of health information. For example, changes in nipple hair follicles may indicate infection, and red and dry breasts, or lumps and inverted nipples may indicate abnormalities.

What are these abnormalities in the nipples?

1. Changes in surrounding hair follicles

It's normal to have dark hair growing on your nipples, but if the hair follicles around your nipples increase in size, become painful, or itchy, you should seek medical attention immediately as this could be a sign of infection.

2. Nipple pain during breastfeeding

Pain, burning and cramping are often problems in the first week of breastfeeding, but if the pain persists, it could be a sign that your baby is not latching on correctly. Nipple pain during breastfeeding can also be a sign of a bacterial infection.

3. Red and dry nipples

Yes, it's possible that your nipples may be rubbed during exercise, but if you're not doing any strenuous activity and still notice that your nipples are red and dry, it could be Paget's disease, a rare cancer of the areola and nipple.

4. Lumps appear on the nipple

Any lump in the nipple of the breast may indicate a cancerous growth. So if you notice any changes in your nipples, it is best to consult a doctor immediately to find out the cause.

5. Nipple inversion

Some people are born with inverted nipples, but if you are not one of them and notice inverted nipples, it is best to consult a doctor immediately as it could be a sign of cancer.

How can women maintain breast health?

1. Massage your breasts regularly

Regular breast massage can increase blood circulation in the breasts and prevent the growth of cancer cells. You can use lotion to massage your breasts after taking a bath for better results.

2. Wear appropriate underwear

Wearing ill-fitting bras may compress your breasts or fail to properly support them, which can affect breast health. Therefore, you should choose the right underwear, wear it correctly, and replace it with new ones regularly.

3. Breastfeeding is best

If you have children, it is best to consider breastfeeding. In addition to the fact that breast milk is rich in nutrients and can help your baby grow healthily, breastfeeding can also prevent breast cancer, help your uterus contract, and restore your health sooner.

4. Get regular checkups

In addition to your usual health care and self-examination, you should also undergo regular breast examinations. Normally, you can check your breasts by touching them yourself after your menstrual cycle. If you are over 30 years old, it is best to have regular breast examinations.

5. Eat healthy food

Many foods contain nutrients that help maintain breast health, such as omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fiber. You can include more fatty fish, nuts, eggs, green leafy vegetables and other foods in your daily diet to help maintain your health.