extreme breast pain

Question
I have extreme breast pain.  I have had this for many years.  But it has gotten worse with age.  When I was menstruating, I would always get the breast pain/tenderness/swelling about a week before my period.  And it would go away pretty much after the first day of my period.  As I grew older, I would begin to get the breast pain/tenderness/swelling more like 2 weeks before my period.  But again, it would subside on day 2 or so of my period.  In April 2008, after suffering for years with extremely heavy periods, I was diagnosed with uterine fibroids.  And I had a hysterectomy (I still have my ovaries).  I understand that even though I no longer menstruate my body can possibly still ?cycle.?  But the breast pain I have these days seems to last for weeks or more like months at a time.  For example, I am currently experiencing this extreme pain.  And I honestly cannot remember how long ago it was that I did not have the pain ? it seems like I have had it for at least a few months now.  Please help.  I am miserable.  It even hurts just to walk or ride in the car.  I'm 46 years old, healthy (I have controlled hypothyroidism), I take vitamins, I exercise regulary, don't consume any caffeine, I eat fairly healthy, I'm 5?2?, I weigh about 129.  The pain is so bad I am imagining how good it might be to have a double mastectomy.


Answer
Lisa,



I don't see a question here, so I am not sure exactly what you are looking for.  However, based on the symptoms you are describing, I assume you are seeking some guidance about what an appropriate course of action might be to find out what might be going on.  You have an obvious hormone imbalance - most likely an estrogen dominance.  You should see a functional medicine doctor, or an endocrinologist in your area to have a female hormone profile run.  This will give you a better idea of the specific problem, and then you can follow up with the results.  There are many wonderful herbs that can help balance your hormones better.  Decreasing your stress and controlling your blood sugar are also very important.  Feel free to send a follow up question once you have the results.



Good Luck!