Man boobs, or gynecomastia as it is medically referred to, is a condition in which men grow breast tissue. It’s more prevalent than you would imagine and can occur in males of any age. Although it’s generally harmless, it may lead to emotional distress and embarrassment. Let’s discuss five of the most frequent causes of this condition.
1. Hormonal Imbalance
One of the most common causes of man boobs is an imbalance between the two hormones testosterone and oestrogen. Although men have both, testosterone must be the dominant one. When oestrogen is too high, it can cause breast tissue growth. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, aging, or as a result of some health conditions (such as hypogonadism or pituitary disorders) can interfere with this balance.
2. Obesity and Excess Fat
Being obese or overweight is a key factor. Extra fat not only gathers around the chest but also raises the level of oestrogen in the body. This hormonal conversion occurs because fat cells can transform testosterone into oestrogen, causing breast tissue to grow. Additionally, weight gain can also cause real muscle in the chest to appear less defined.
3. Use of Certain Medications
Some medicines prescribed by doctors may cause gynecomastia as a secondary effect. They include:
- Steroids and androgens
- Anti-anxiety drugs
- Medicines for the heart
- Anti-ulcer medicines
- Some antibiotics
These drugs either impair hormone levels or interfere with the way the body processes hormones.
4. Alcohol and Drug Use
These substances are also known to cause hormonal changes. Frequent use of these substances has been found to cause liver damage, which disrupts the regulation of hormones, and can raise the levels of oestrogen in the body. Excessive alcohol consumption, especially, can cause liver cirrhosis and further complicate the situation.
5. Underlying Medical Conditions
In some cases, man boobs are the result of an underlying medical problem. Such conditions include:
- Liver disease
- Kidney failure
- Thyroid disease
Tumours (particularly of the adrenal glands or testes)
All these can interfere with normal hormone secretion and cause the development of breast tissue in men. Getting examined is worth it if breast enlargement is sudden or if there is associated pain or swelling.
Final Thoughts
Although man boobs are normal and mostly harmless, they can sometimes indicate underlying health issues. A healthy weight, staying away from drug abuse, and talking to a doctor regarding medication side effects can prevent or treat gynecomastia. If you’re worried about any physical changes, it’s always better to consult the doctor.
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