As a result of aging and declining hormone levels, some women notice a loss in breast fullness or sagging breasts. With aging, denser, glandular breast tissue can become replaced by fatty tissue, and women may notice that the breasts take on a flatter or elongated appearance with nipples pointing downward. Other associated symptoms and signs can include stretch marks and changes in bra cup size.
In most cases, the loss of breast fullness is related to hormone levels changing as menopause approaches, and gravitational pull of the tissue combined with loss of tissue strength tend to pull the breasts downward. Other factors that increase breast sagging can include smoking because it weakens elastin fibers, decreasing skin elasticity. Sunburns can also damage the elastin fibers. Frequent weight fluctuations can also increase the tendency of the breasts to sag. Wearing undergarments that lack proper support can highlight the appearance of drooping.
Other causes of loss in breast fullness
- Aging
- Breast Surgery
- Frequent Weight Fluctuation
- Hormonal Imbalances
- Weight Loss
QUESTION
If menopause occurs in a woman younger than ___ years, it is considered to be premature. See AnswerPictures, Images, Illustrations & Quizzes
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Causes of Loss in Breast Fullness
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Menopause
Menopause is the time in a woman's life when menstrual periods permanently stop, also called the "change of life." Menopause symptoms and signs include hot flashes, night sweats, irregular vaginal bleeding, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, urinary incontinence, weight gain, and emotional symptoms such as mood swings. Treatment of menopausal symptoms varies and should be discussed with your physician.
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Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the time in a woman's life when she is approaching menopause. During this time a woman starts to develop symptoms of declining estrogen levels that may include mood swings, painful sex, night sweats, hot flashes, and weight gain. Every adult woman eventually will experience perimenopause.
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Smoking (How to Quit Smoking)
Smoking is an addiction. More than 430,000 deaths occur each year in the U.S. from smoking related illnesses. Secondhand smoke or "passive smoke" also harm family members, coworkers, and others around smokers. There are a number of techniques available to assist people who want to quit smoking.
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Sunburn (Sun Poisoning)
Sunburn is caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun. UV rays can also damage the eyes. Repeated overexposure to UV rays also increases the risk of scarring, freckles, wrinkles, and dry skin. Symptoms of sunburn include painful, red, tender, and hot skin. The skin may blister, swell, and peel. Sun poisoning (severe sunburn) includes nausea, fever, chills, rapid pulse, dizziness, and more. Home remedies can help relieve sunburn pain, blisters, and peeling. Severe sunburns may need medical treatment. Sun protection and sunscreen for a person's skin type are recommended to decrease the chance of severe sunburn and sun poisoning.
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