Male breast growth can have a major emotional impact on a young man. There is just something about protruding breasts in a male that can result in teasing from peers. Typical behavior is to hide the chest when in public or shun others. Those bothered by the problem avoid swimming, taking their shirts off, and other activities where others can see their breasts. Many do not discuss their concerns with parents, peers, and do not understand the problem. Starting that dialog is important.Gynecomastia is a common condition affecting between 40 and 60% of all males. Breast development easily happens during adolescence and may have many possible causes. It can appear as a small lump just under the areola (colored skin around the nipple). During growth, this mass can be tender.
Gynecomastia can also be a side effect of some medications and drugs. The most common medication that causes breast development is estrogen, and its effects can be seen in a child who ingests estrogen pills, or even if a family member is using an estrogen cream and has prolonged contact with him. Other medications can include certain antidepressants, drugs used to treat high blood pressure and tuberculosis, and some chemotherapy agents. Street drugs that may cause gynecomastia include marijuana and heroin. Anabolic steroids can also stimulate male breast growth.