Gynecomastia is a condition that causes the breast tissue to grow larger in men. There are three different ways to handle the condition, with the most popular being to wear a Gynecomastia shirt or compression vest. Other more permanent solutions include Gynecomastia pills and Gynecomastia surgery.
What Causes Gynecomastia in Bodybuilders?
In order to figure out the cause of Gynecomastia, you first have to make sure what you’re dealing with is a case of the real thing. A person with a real case of Gynecomastia will have enlarged breast tissue in their chest; others are simply suffering from fatty tissue which can be the result of obesity or lack of exercise.
If you’re a bodybuilder suffering from Gynecomastia, it’s like the former and you indeed probably have a real case of the condition. Puberty, drugs, and medical conditions are all causes of Gynecomastia. Gynecomastia caused by puberty will typically disappear with time, while the other two causes could mean it sticks around.
Drug-induced Gynecomastia is commonplace in today’s society. Anti-hypertensive and anti-ulcer medications can cause Gynecomastia, and even some heart meds. AIDS related drugs can also lead to Gynecomastia, but the vast majority of Gynecomastia that is caused by drugs doesn’t happen because of prescription medication, it is usually caused by drugs sold on the black market to bodybuilders and fitness fanatics. Anabolic steroids, growth promoters and hormone enhancers can all cause Gynecomastia as little as one week after someone begins taking them. The effect of this type of Gynecomastia is life-long and will require special clothing, further medication, or surgery to temporarily or permanently fix the problem.
Symptoms of Gynecomastia
Typically, Gynecomastia is diagnosed when sensitivity is noticed in the nipple area. This sensitivity often grows into a big discomfort, which leads men to consult their doctors. The tissue will continue to develop within the breast, causing the area to swell up and hurt more. The breast will extend under the arm, which can make lifting and arm movements painful.
The condition at its least severe stage usually comes as a mass underneath the nipple. The most severe cases can lead to the development of full, coning breasts. Gynecomastia is generally more noticeable in cold weather when everything tightens. In warm weather, when you usually won’t to take off your shirt to go swimming or be outdoors, the breasts will “pout” forward and become more noticeable.
Anabolic Androgenic Steroids and Gynecomastia
Anabolic steroids will likely lead to Gynecomastia. A person who gets Gyno from steroids will need to stop taking the pills and consult their doctor on the best course of treatment. So how to get rid of Gynecomastia from steroids? With any case of Gynecomastia, it can only be fixed with compression shirts, medical pills, natural supplements or surgery. Gynecomastia from steroids isn’t life-threatening, but it is an embarrassing condition that becomes a hassle to deal with over time.
Types of Steroids that Cause Gynecomastia
Not all steroids lead to Gynecomastia, but they all have their side effects. Only steroids that aromatize will lead to Gynecomastia. Anadrol, Sustanon and Dianabol are all common causes of Gynecomastia, but there are others. The length of time it takes and the severity of the case depends on the strength and dose.
Steroid Gynecomastia Prevention
The best way to prevent Gynecomastia caused by steroids is to simply stop taking them. Drugs such as steroids throw off your hormonal balance and lead to a growth in breast tissue. Despite the overwhelming amount of cases of Gynecomastia caused by steroids, some still wonder can steroids reverse Gynecomastia? The short and simple answer is “no,” steroids cause the issue, they cannot fix it.
Note: No matter if you are a professional or an amateur bodybuilder, we recommend to check out the book called “Better Than Steroids” by Dr. Warren Willey.
Steroids cause an increase in estrogen (the female hormone) and/or a decrease in testosterone (the male hormone), which is what causes the breast tissue to grow. Steroid abuse is almost guaranteed to lead to Gynecomastia, and all treatment options for Gynecomastia are expensive.
Estrogen blockers, such as Armidex or Nolvadex can help prevent this condition, but once you have it, only surgery can actually cure it. To prevent the breasts from being noticeable, some men also try to use ice cubes or cold water to tighten the skin and make them less noticeable.
Handling Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is present in hundreds of thousands of men and it can really bring down your self-esteem. If you’re suffering from Gynecomastia, it’s a good idea to look at the potential treatment options you have.
If you don’t have money for surgery or medications, compression shirts are a good temporary alternative. Gynecomastia shirt only work to hide the issue, though, and it’s obviously still a present issue when you choose to do outdoor activities such as swimming or tanning. Read more about Gynecomastia shirts here.
Gynecomastia medication is another option that is less-expensive than surgery, but also less effective. Most people suffering from Gynecomastia favor either compression shirts for their ease of use and immediate effects, or surgery for it’s permanent fix of the issue, but if neither of those suit you, you may consider speaking with your doctor about the potential of Gynecomastia pills.
Surgery is the best option for anyone suffering from Gynecomastia, but it’s also the most expensive. The surgeon will tailor the procedure to your body, though, and will thoroughly discuss the side effects and procedure with you before beginning. In some cases, insurance companies will provide coverage for Gynecomastia. Read more about Gynecomastia Surgery Insurance here.