For men, gynecomastia, or abnormal male breast enlargement, is more than just unattractive. It can be a source of embarrassment, crushing a person’s self-esteem.
Although this condition is not uncommon among adolescent males due to hormonal changes, middle-aged and elderly men often don’t understand what exactly is causing the abnormal enlargement in their chests. Many of these men won’t even talk about their breast enlargement concerns because of social taboos and the female-centric nature of the issue.
So what exactly causes gynecomastia?
Hormonal fluctuations
Too much estrogen in comparison to testosterone is one of primary causes of gynecomastia. This is why the condition tends to subside in adolescent males on its own once they reach adulthood. In adults, the hormonal imbalance may be a consequence of an existing health problem such as adrenal fatigue, liver disease, kidney trouble, and certain types of cancer involving the testes, pituitary glands, or adrenal glands.
Obesity or being overweight
There are two ways obesity can lead to gynecomastia. First, it could lead to higher-than-normal levels of estrogen in the body. Second, breast enlargement is influenced by excess amounts of fat in the chest, common in overweight men.
Other contributing factors
Other contributing factors that can influence the development of gynecomastia include the following:
- Medications such as anti-androgens that help reduce prostate enlargement, anti-ulcer drugs, anti-cancer treatments, antidepressants, and medications for heart disease.
- Diseases and health issues that interfere with testosterone production such as tumors in the pituitary gland, adrenal glands or testes, hyperthyroidism, kidney failure, and malnutrition.
You don’t need to suffer with gynecomastia. Call Dr. Hetzler at 732-219-0447 and let’s discuss your options.
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