Viral infections often cause various symptoms, and breast soreness can be concerning. Many wonder about a connection between COVID-19 and breast tenderness. This article explores the potential link, alongside other common reasons for this symptom.
Breast Soreness and COVID-19
While breast soreness is not a primary symptom of COVID-19, some individuals have reported experiencing it. This discomfort may arise from the body’s systemic response to the viral infection. Generalized body aches and muscle pain, common with many viral illnesses, can extend to the chest area, potentially feeling like breast soreness.
Systemic inflammation, a hallmark of viral infections like COVID-19, can affect various tissues throughout the body, including breast tissue, leading to discomfort. Prolonged or severe coughing associated with COVID-19 can also lead to costochondritis, an inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone, which may feel like breast tenderness.
Hormonal fluctuations can also play a role, as illness-related stress can impact hormone balance. Stress can increase cortisol levels, affecting progesterone production and potentially leading to breast tenderness. Although rare, breast pathologies like sterile abscesses have been reported after COVID-19 infection, possibly linked to a vasculitis-like process. Breast pain is also frequently associated with COVID-19 vaccines due to immune responses in the lymph nodes, causing swelling and soreness in the armpit and breast region.
Other Reasons for Breast Discomfort
Breast soreness is common and usually not a sign of breast cancer. The most frequent cause is hormonal fluctuations, particularly those related to the menstrual cycle. Many women experience cyclical breast pain three to five days before a period, subsiding once it begins, due to rising estrogen and progesterone levels that cause breast swelling and tenderness. This pain often affects both breasts and can radiate to the armpit.
Pregnancy is another common cause of breast tenderness, especially during the first trimester, as the body produces increased hormones. Breastfeeding can also lead to soreness, particularly if an infection like mastitis develops. Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue, sometimes involving an infection, which can cause pain, warmth, swelling, and redness.
Certain medications can also contribute to breast discomfort, including hormonal therapies (oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy), antidepressants, and diuretics. Other factors causing non-cyclical breast pain include breast cysts, fibrocystic breast changes (lumpy, tender tissue), and ill-fitting bras. Stress and anxiety may also exacerbate breast pain.
Guidance for Breast Symptoms
For mild breast soreness, several home care strategies can help. Wearing a supportive, properly fitted bra can provide relief. Applying warm compresses or ice packs may also help reduce pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can be effective in managing symptoms.
Most breast pain is not indicative of a serious condition, but it is important to know when to seek medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if the breast pain is persistent, lasts longer than one or two menstrual cycles, or interferes with your daily activities or sleep. Prompt medical evaluation is also warranted if you notice:
New lumps in the breast or armpit.
Changes in breast size or shape.
Skin changes such as redness, dimpling (like an orange peel), or irritation.
Nipple discharge, especially if bloody or clear.
If breast pain is accompanied by fever or flu-like symptoms, or if the breast becomes hot and swollen, it could indicate an infection that requires treatment.