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peter·Health·

Gynecomastia in Men: Causes, Symptoms and When to See a Doctor

Gynecomastia in Men: Causes, Symptoms and When to See a Doctor — 1 of 2
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Gynecomastia is the benign enlargement of breast tissue in males. It is different from chest fat caused by weight gain. True gynecomastia may feel like a firm or rubbery disc beneath or around the nipple. It can be linked to normal hormone changes during puberty or ageing, certain medicines, alcohol or cannabis use, excess body fat, and health conditions involving the liver, kidneys or thyroid. In some cases, genetic or hormonal conditions may also contribute. Exercise and weight loss can reduce chest fat, but they may not remove glandular breast tissue. Speak with a doctor before stopping any medication. Medical assessment is important if the swelling is persistent, painful, one-sided, rapidly increasing, or associated with a hard lump or nipple discharge. Many cases in teenagers resolve without treatment. Persistent or severe cases may require treatment for an underlying cause, and surgery is sometimes considered after medical evaluation.

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K
kris

How do people usually tell the difference between a firm disc around the nipple and ordinary chest fat from weight gain?

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M
matthew

Fair question; people often assume every chest change is just weight gain.

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J
jaruma

The distinction between benign breast tissue enlargement and chest fat is useful, especially since normal hormone changes can happen at puberty or with ageing.

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M
mel

It is helpful information, but people should avoid assuming every chest change is gynecomastia just because the symptoms sound familiar.

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J
julia

A practical first step is to note whether there is a firm or rubbery area beneath the nipple, then seek medical advice if concerned.

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