Nipple pain is most common in women, but sometimes also in men. There may also be itching of the nipple. The cause may be pregnancy, but also hypersensitivity, eczema, hormones or other causes. Rarely is pain a sign of breast cancer.
What is nipple pain?
With nipple pain, pain is specifically felt on the nipple itself, not on the breast. Sore breasts are sometimes accompanied by nipple pain. Pain in the nipple itself is the main complaint. Nipple pain is common. Women are more likely to suffer from it, but sometimes men too.
Pain and itching: the cause
A sore nipple accompanied by itching is most often caused by hypersensitivity of the nerve endings. The nipples contain many nerve endings that are very sensitive, just like the lips and fingertips. Abrasive clothing is often the cause of itching and/or pain in the nipple. Certain fabrics such as silk or lace can enhance this. Avoiding these substances is a primary point of attention.Eczema is a skin condition that causes flaking and redness, which is itchy and sometimes painful. Eczema also occurs on the nipples. It is important to regularly apply a greasy cream to the nipples so that they do not dry out.Itching can also be caused by the use of shower gel, soap, perfume, etc. An allergic reaction occurs that causes itching and sometimes pain. Pain is often the result of scratching the nipple. Fragrance-free products will in many cases reduce the allergic reaction.
Pregnant and sore nipples
Under the influence of hormones during pregnancy, nipples can become painful, sometimes accompanied by itching. The nipples can also become hypersensitive. This problem can continue to occur throughout the pregnancy. Lubricating the nipples protects them from abrasive clothing. A moisturizing cream protects the nipples from drying out and keeps them supple. Sometimes an ointment with an anti-itch effect offers a solution. The nipples can also be ‘hardened’ by rubbing them several times a day, which reduces hypersensitivity due to habituation. However, if this does not feel comfortable, it is better not to do it.Hormone fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can also cause nipples to become sore. Because this occurs more often, it is important to keep track of when nipple pain occurs. By keeping track of this for three months, it will often be seen that there is a certain pattern associated with the menstrual cycle.
Raynaud’s disease or syndrome
This disease is also called vascular spasm. The extremities of the body, such as toes and fingers, change color and hurt. The blood vessels constrict as a result of cold, stress or a change in ambient temperature. Sometimes Raynaud’s syndrome also affects the nipples. It is important that the nipples are kept warm. This makes the blood vessels less likely to constrict and cause pain.
Breast cancer and sore nipples
Nipple pain is rarely a sign of breast cancer. Paget’s disease of the breast is a form of breast cancer that causes a sore nipple. Often some blood comes from the nipple and a lump can be felt on the nipple. Every year, approximately 125 women in the Netherlands develop this form of breast cancer. Paget’s disease of the breast is an extremely rare form of breast cancer.Nipple pain occurs in only two percent of breast cancer cases. Breast cancer can be recognized by the changing breast or nipple. Nipple discharge, an inverted nipple, bloody nipple or a flaky nipple can be a sign of breast cancer. One in eight women in the Netherlands gets breast cancer.
Inflamed mammary gland
A mammary gland infection is caused by bacteria that enter through the nipple. This mainly occurs in breastfeeding mothers. The nipple feels painful and there is redness, a warm nipple and swelling of the nipple and the area around it. The chest is sensitive to pressure. A fever may occur and the woman feels ill. If an inflamed mammary gland is not treated, the entire breast can become inflamed. An inflammation caused by bacteria can be treated effectively with a course of antibiotics.
Sore nipples in men
In men, sore nipples can have various causes. Wearing certain synthetic clothing can cause nipple pain. Avoiding these clothes often helps solve the problem.Eczema on the nipples is recognizable by flaky, red and itchy skin around the nipples or on the nipples themselves. This can cause pain in the nipples. A greasy cream keeps the skin supple. For severe eczema, a hormone ointment can be prescribed.The use of hormonal medications can also cause nipple pain. It must be determined to what extent the medication is necessary: taking medication unnecessarily is never advisable. When medication is indispensable, the nipples can be treated with a greasy cream to keep them supple. The pain often disappears when hormonal medications are stopped.Breast cancer also occurs in men: approximately 85 men in the Netherlands develop breast cancer every year. However, nipple pain is rarely a sign of breast cancer. In approximately two percent of breast cancer cases, nipple pain is the first sign of breast cancer.