Summary about Disease
Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue that can occur in women who are breastfeeding. It can also occur in women who are not breastfeeding, though this is less common. The inflammation can cause breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness. Sometimes, mastitis can be accompanied by an infection.
Symptoms
Breast pain or tenderness
Swelling of the breast
Warmth to the touch
Redness of the skin, often in a wedge-shaped pattern
Nipple discharge
Feeling ill with fever, chills, and body aches
Causes
Blocked milk duct: Incomplete emptying of the breast during feeding can lead to a blocked duct.
Bacteria entering the breast: Bacteria, often from the baby's mouth, can enter the breast through a cracked nipple or skin break.
Other causes, in non-breastfeeding women, can include skin infections, nipple piercings, or inflammatory conditions.
Medicine Used
Antibiotics: If the mastitis is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics are prescribed. Common antibiotics include dicloxacillin, cephalexin, or clindamycin.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and fever.
Is Communicable
Mastitis itself (the inflammation) is not communicable. However, if the mastitis is caused by a bacterial infection, the bacteria could potentially spread, though it is unlikely to directly cause mastitis in another person. The primary concern is the infant's exposure to the mother's bacteria, which is already happening during breastfeeding.
Precautions
Frequent breastfeeding or pumping: Empty the breast completely and often to prevent milk from building up.
Proper latch: Ensure the baby is latching correctly during breastfeeding to prevent nipple damage.
Vary feeding positions: Change breastfeeding positions to help empty all areas of the breast.
Good hygiene: Wash hands frequently, especially before breastfeeding.
Avoid tight bras: Wear supportive but not constricting bras.
Address nipple pain or cracking promptly: Use lanolin cream or consult a lactation consultant.
How long does an outbreak last?
With appropriate treatment (antibiotics for bacterial infections), symptoms typically begin to improve within 2-3 days. It may take a week or two for all symptoms to completely resolve. Without treatment, mastitis can worsen and potentially lead to a breast abscess.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: A doctor will examine the breast for signs of inflammation, redness, and tenderness.
Medical history: The doctor will ask about symptoms, breastfeeding history, and any other relevant medical conditions.
Milk culture (sometimes): If the mastitis is recurrent or does not respond to antibiotics, a milk sample may be cultured to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.
Timeline of Symptoms
Early: Tenderness or pain in one area of the breast, often accompanied by a red, warm patch.
Progressive: The pain intensifies, swelling increases, and flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, body aches) may develop.
Advanced (if untreated): The area of inflammation expands, the pain becomes severe, and an abscess may form.
Important Considerations
Continue breastfeeding (if possible): Despite the pain, breastfeeding (or pumping) is important to clear the blockage and prevent further complications. It is generally safe for the baby, even with an infection. Consult a doctor.
Rest: Get plenty of rest to help your body fight the infection.
Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Consult a doctor: Seek medical attention promptly for diagnosis and treatment.
Lactation consultant: Consider consulting a lactation consultant for help with breastfeeding techniques.