الفهرس 
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Abstract
Mastalgia is the commonest breast symptom presenting to general
practitioners and breast surgeon alike. Two out of three women suffer
from breast pain at sometime in their lives. Like any other breast
problem, it can be worrying, but most breast pain can be treated easily.
^ Women with severe, sustained breast pain that interferes with their
quality of life may benefit from treatment with low-dose or luteal-phase
medications such as danazol or tamoxifen. These medications have
proven effectiveness; however, their benefit in ameliorating breast
i
discomfort and pain must be balanced against their potential adverse
effects. Selection of a specific agent is individualized. In certain
circumstances, bromocriptine or a gonadotropin-releasing hormone
agonist may be needed; however, approaches to decreased dosing to
minimize adverse effects have not been established.
To make a full assessment of the cause, all patients require a full
history, examination and, sometimes, investigations. Dairy cards are often
helpful. The commonest cause is cyclical mastalgia. Most women require
reassurance only and the pain often settles spontaneously after few
months. For the remainder, simple lifestyle changes should be suggested
initially, such as wearing a well-fitted sports bra, weight reduction,
regular exercise and reduction in caffee intake. Unfortunately, there is a
paucity of evidence for the usefullness of these measures.