very normal. this is most likely adolescent gynecomastia (you can find lots of information on this temporary condition from webmd or a google search). tender nipples or getting breast development can be frightening during puberty. while this condition is temporary it can last for a few years involve both breasts and will keep his shirt on for a while. let him read what you find on the internet and assure him that he is not alone. i see this every week in our adolescent clinic. this is just raging hormones. males have both male and female hormones and this is just a response from the female hormone. his male hormones (testosterone) will still be prevalent. gynecomastia can create very tender breasts so just bumping in to them or having his peers or sibling tease him can be emotionally painful. be nice. don't tease or let anyone else do it either. if he wants to wear a shirt in the swimming pool let him. if you look around there are many other teens wearing shirts too. this is not just to protect their back from sun. they may have some breast development as well.
almost 12 y/o boy complaining of tenderness at and around the nipple area upon touch. is this normal? . diagnosed with asthma @ 4 months. controlled with qvar inhaler. otherwise in good health.