Can breast distension and pain be treated with moxibustion?

Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
Updated on January 30, 2025
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Breast distension pain can be treated with moxibustion, but the results might not always be satisfactory as breast distension pain is related to mammary gland hyperplasia, which is believed to be connected to increased estrogen levels caused by endocrine disorders. Generally, we use traditional Chinese medicine for treatment, which relieves pain through methods that soothe the liver and regulate Qi, and harmonize the thoroughfare and conception vessels. Endocrine treatment is also an option but is used as sparingly as possible. However, it can be administered before menstrual onset in cases where pain is significantly pronounced in the pre-menopausal phase. Regular pelvic ultrasound re-examinations must be conducted during endocrine treatment due to the increased risk of endometrial cancer that this treatment might entail. Treatment with vitamins such as vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E can also be used, as they aid in improving liver function, regulating sex hormone metabolism, and enhancing autonomic nervous system functions, serving as adjunctive medication for this condition. (Medication should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

Other Voices

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Is it normal to have breast pain in the late stages of pregnancy?

In the later stages of pregnancy, it is normal for pregnant women to experience breast pain. This occurs because, in the late stages of pregnancy, levels of estrogen and progesterone increase. Under the combined influence of these hormones, the mammary glands become congested and swollen, further proliferate, and the mammary ducts expand, leading to breast pain. This condition prepares the body for breastfeeding after childbirth. When breast pain occurs, one can use a hot towel to apply heat to the breasts to alleviate the pain. Additionally, it is important to choose comfortable bras daily, avoiding those that are too tight or small, as they can cause compression on the breasts.

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How long will breast tenderness during pregnancy last?

Many early-stage pregnant mothers suffer from breast tenderness, leading to frequent inquiries about how long this discomfort will last. The duration of breast tenderness varies from person to person; no two cases are exactly the same. Generally, as the pregnancy progresses and enters the mid-term, the continuously rising hormone levels will stabilize, and the breast discomfort will significantly ease. Therefore, pregnant mothers should not worry too much. Relax, pay attention to your physical condition, and if the pain becomes unbearable, consider seeking help from a doctor at the hospital.

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Written by Zhang Shu Kun
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Why do breasts swell and hurt after soaking feet in mugwort?

When experiencing breast pain and swelling while using mugwort for foot soaks, it is primarily considered that mugwort promotes overall blood circulation, which may lead to painful hardness upon touching, mainly suspected to be caused by mastitis or a tumor. It is advised to promptly visit a reputable hospital to investigate the specific cause and rule out inflammation or tumors in the breast. This can effectively prevent worsening of the symptoms. Additionally, rest is important as mugwort foot soaks can be beneficial for bodily health, but if symptoms occur, it is essential to immediately stop the treatment.

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Breast Surgery
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What is the cause of breast swelling, pain, and prominent nipples?

Breast swelling and pain, along with prominent nipples, are generally considered to be related to fibrocystic breast changes. Currently, fibrocystic breast changes are mostly believed to be related to elevated levels of estrogen caused by hormonal imbalances. The external environment in which people live, work and living conditions, interpersonal relationships, and other various stresses causing psychological factors, can all alter the internal environment of the human body. This, in turn, affects the function of the endocrine system, leading to abnormal secretion of one or several hormones, and changes in the hormone levels within the breast receptors during the menstrual cycle. When the balance of hormone levels in the body is disrupted, with an increase in estrogen levels and a decrease in progesterone secretion, it can lead to incomplete regression after breast proliferation, causing the growth of breast tissue. Additionally, the differential quality and quantity of female hormone receptors in the breast tissue components may lead to uneven growth of various parts of the breast.

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Breast Surgery
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What is causing breast swelling, pain, and discharge of pus?

Breast pain and hyperplasia are related, while purulent discharge might be caused by inflammation within the ducts. Usually, this can be diagnosed through ductoscopy. If it is inflammation, the lesions can be identified under ductoscopy, and then can be treated through washing with metronidazole and gentamicin, achieving a cure. However, there is a scenario where the issue is due to previously forcefully suppressing milk expulsion, leading to a large amount of milk residue in the ducts, causing purulent discharge. In this case, local heat application followed by massage and milk expulsion performed by a professional lactation masseuse can cure the condition. Regular follow-up with ultrasound and mammography of the breast is needed in the future. (Medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)