Gynecomastia is a condition in which male breasts enlarge like women. This is caused by swelling of the tissues in the breast due to an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and testosterone. If a man has a higher estrogen hormone than testosterone, he is at risk of developing gynecomastia. In the meantime, you may want to check out how to get rid of man boobs as well.
Generally, men will experience chest pain and over time the breast size will enlarge. This disorder usually only affects one part of the breast. However, you may also experience this in both of your breasts. Gynecomastia is not a serious problem, because this will improve on its own even if you do not take medication. However, natural recovery time may be relatively long and cause you to experience problems in appearance. All men can experience this at every time in their lives. Here’s the explanation:
1. Babies
Newborn babies can have large breasts immediately. This is due to the effects of estrogen from the mother. However, generally, swollen breast tissue will disappear by itself within two to three weeks after birth. But breast can also continue to swell and need treatment.
2. Preteens
Usually, gynecomastia results from a tumor that produces estrogen. This causes buds to develop in the breast which can last up to two years. However, this tends to heal by itself.
3. Teenagers
In adolescents, gynecomastia results from changes in the puberty hormone, usually during the early to mid-puberty period. However, this will usually recover by itself, approximately six months to two years.
4. Adults
The peak prevalence of gynecomastia is at the age of 50 years and 80 years. At least one in four men can experience gynecomastia during that time. Usually, this results from several conditions, such as liver or lung cancer, cirrhosis of the liver, an overactive thyroid, hormonal problems, such as cancer of the pituitary gland, adrenal gland, or testes.