Pain in the left breast area in men: what to know

Tender breast tissue can occur with hormonal changes, medicines or a benign enlargement called gynaecomastia. A muscle strain or irritated rib often hurts with movement, coughing or pressure. Skin infection may cause warmth, redness or a sore area, while an abscess can produce swelling or drainage. A firm lump, nipple change or discharge needs examination. Pain in this region can also be referred from the heart or lungs, particularly when it occurs with exertion or breathing symptoms.

Notice whether touch, movement, exercise or deep breathing changes the pain, and check for a lump, swelling, rash or nipple discharge without repeatedly pressing the area. Review recent exercise, injury and medicines with a clinician or pharmacist. Arrange an appointment for unexplained, one-sided or persistent pain, or any breast enlargement or lump. A clinician may examine the chest and decide whether imaging or other tests are needed.

Call emergency services for chest pressure or pain with breathlessness, sweating, faintness, nausea, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back. Seek prompt care for fever, a hot red swelling, pus-like drainage or rapidly worsening tenderness. Book timely medical review for a new lump, nipple inversion, bloody discharge or skin dimpling, even if the pain is mild.

Could this be breast tissue, a muscle or rib, or referred chest pain? Could any medicine or hormone change contribute? What findings would mean I need imaging or urgent care?