Sore nipples

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Sore nipples can be experienced by women during their reproductive cycle and it is a symptom of pregnancy. Sore breast can be an indication of many things such as changes that takes place in the body of a woman. Sometimes sore nipples can be caused by injuries or external factors.

Women who are breastfeeding can cause sore nipples, exposure to chemical or using harsh laundry soap can cause a tingling, tenderness and soreness of the breast. Soreness of the breast can be experienced after undergoing treatment for a specific medication and it also an indication of some underlying health condition such as breast cancer.

Common symptoms of a sore nipple

Sore nipples
Women who are breastfeeding can cause sore nipples, exposure to chemical or using harsh laundry soap can cause a tingling, tenderness and soreness of the breast.
  • Heaviness in the breasts
  • Tenderness and severe pain
  • Itchiness and swelling in the nipple
  • Formation of cracks found around the nipples
  • Bleeding
  • Development of lumps or bumps found around the areola
  • Discharge coming from the nipple like pus or milk
  • Irregular menstrual cycle
  • Frequent or severe headaches
  • Hot flashes
  • Sleepiness and severe mood swings
  • Gain in weight or bloating in the abdomen

Factors that cause sore nipples

  • Postmenstrual syndrome (PMS) where the dominance of estrogen causes hormonal imbalances in the body and can cause sore nipples among women.
  • Pregnant women experiences itchiness and soreness of the breast during the first stages of pregnancy.
  • During pre-menopause and menopause women can experience soreness of breast
  • Oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy and some medications such as antidepressants can cause soreness of breast.
  • Diseases of the heart that causes pain and discomfort can also be felt on the area found around the breast.
  • Large breasted women are also susceptible to soreness of the nipple because of the pressure and weight placed on them
  • Fungal infections of the skin can cause soreness of the nipple.
  • Using products such as body wash, soap and laundry detergent that contains plenty of chemicals can cause irritation of skin found around the nipples that can cause soreness.
  • Incorrect sucking of babies of the nipples

Treatment and home remedies of sore nipples

  • Apply a cold compress on the nipples in order to help lessen the swelling and other symptoms. Wrap a few ice cubes in a towel and apply this over the affected nipples for at least 10 minutes.
  • Wear a bra that fits well and gives an adequate amount of support for the breast. Wear a proper bra, especially when performing any physical activity. Remove the bra at night before going to bed or at bedtime.
  • Change bras regularly and wash them thoroughly before wearing them. Avoid using laundry soap that contains chemical, instead use mild and a good laundry detergent. Harsh chemical causes irritation of the skin found around the nipples and breast and cause a sore nipples.
  • Avoid being stressed it increases soreness of the nipples and breast, perform relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga and deep breathing or a massage therapy since it helps with the condition.
  • Clean the nipples and keep it dry all the time. Make sure that the areas around the breast and the nipples should be wiped thoroughly after shower.

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