A puffy areola can be the result of a number of conditions and is likely to be associated with the nipple of the breast as well, as the areola and nipple complex are connected. While a swollen or puffy areola or nipple is often the result of puberty, pregnancy, hormonal changes or breastfeeding, it can sometimes indicate a medical condition such as cysts or tumors.

The areola is part of the mammary gland and in women, represents a significant function in the breastfeeding process. Sometimes the areola, which surrounds the nipple, appears as a darker pigmented area of skin, though sometimes no pigment can be seen. Enlargement, swelling and tenderness of the breast, including the areola and nipple often occur in pregnancy and a sore, puffy areola and nipple are not uncommon when beginning breastfeeding. However, this pregnancy related symptom normally occurs in both breasts.

Another normal cause of puffy areola is puberty. Girls begin developing breasts in response to estrogen hormones being released into the body. Some girls will develop breasts faster than others and because breast size is different for everyone, development may appear as swelling or puffiness. The awkwardness of not knowing what is or isn’t normal during puberty can be greatly reduced if kids are able to have conversations about the process with trusted adults.

Less common, but by far more alarming causes of puffy areolae are various forms of breast cancer. There are not always symptoms of breast cancer, but irregular swelling of the nipples, swollen or puffy areola, abnormal lumps, and even inverted nipples may all be signs of a tumor or cyst. Granted not all formations are cancerous and benign cysts are common, if such symptoms present, especially in only one breast, a physician should be contacted for evaluation and a mammogram should be performed.

Any unusual changes in the breast that cannot be explained by puberty, pregnancy, or breast feeding should be discussed with a doctor. There are instances where pain or tenderness in the breasts is not marked by visual signs, such as swelling or puffiness. This symptom can also be caused by puberty, pregnancy, breast feeding, excessive caffeine consumption, and a variety of other possibilities. If you have any concerns about the shape, color, size or changes in the breasts, talk to a doctor or gynecologist. While the symptoms discussed here mostly effect women, a condition known as gynecomastia does affect men and results in the growth of breasts.