Nipple pain in men, while potentially concerning, often stems from benign and treatable conditions. Understanding the various reasons behind this discomfort can help individuals address the issue appropriately.
Everyday Irritants and Common Causes
Friction is a frequent culprit behind male nipple pain, often occurring during physical activities. This irritation, often called “runner’s nipple” or “jogger’s nipple,” results from clothing rubbing against the nipples, particularly during prolonged exercise like running or cycling. The repetitive motion can lead to chafing, causing burning, stinging, redness, and even raw skin. Sweat can exacerbate this friction, making the skin more susceptible to irritation.
Beyond physical activity, everyday contact with certain substances or conditions can also irritate the nipples. Soaps, detergents, lotions, or even specific fabric types can trigger allergic reactions or contact dermatitis, leading to itching, burning, and painful redness. Minor trauma or injury to the nipple area, such as from self-grooming or accidental impact, can also cause pain and sensitivity. Additionally, cold temperatures can increase nipple sensitivity and cause discomfort.
Hormonal Shifts and Medications
Hormonal imbalances are a factor in male nipple pain. Gynecomastia, enlarged male breast tissue, often causes nipple tenderness and pain. This occurs due to an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone, with higher estrogen or lower testosterone levels. It can manifest during puberty, as hormone levels fluctuate, or with aging, as testosterone naturally declines. Pain can range from a dull ache to sharp pain, often due to inflamed tissue stretching nerves and skin.
Certain medications can induce nipple pain and breast tissue changes as a side effect. These include anti-androgens for prostate conditions, certain antidepressants, antibiotics, and heart medications like digoxin. Anti-ulcer drugs (e.g., cimetidine, omeprazole) and some ADHD medications (e.g., amphetamines) have been linked to gynecomastia and nipple pain. Substances like anabolic steroids, marijuana, and heroin can also contribute to hormonal imbalances causing breast enlargement and tenderness.
Underlying Skin Issues and Infections
Various conditions can affect the skin around the nipples, leading to pain and discomfort. Eczema, dermatitis, and other rashes can cause scaling, cracking, redness, and itching. These conditions can make the skin dry or chafed, creating small openings for bacteria and leading to infections.
Though rare in men, mastitis, an inflammation of breast tissue, can cause pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. Infections can arise from injuries, nipple piercings, or existing skin conditions. Cysts, fluid-filled lumps under the skin, can also develop and cause soreness, though breast cysts are uncommon in men.
When to Consult a Doctor
While many causes of male nipple pain are not serious, certain symptoms warrant medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare professional if pain is persistent and does not improve within a few days. Specific warning signs include a lump or swelling in the breast area, especially if firm or tender.
Other concerning symptoms include nipple discharge, particularly if bloody or clear. Changes in nipple appearance, such as inversion, skin dimpling, or a rash that does not clear, should also prompt a doctor’s visit. Pain with fever, warmth, or spreading redness suggests a possible infection requiring prompt medical attention.