These are the symptoms of mastitis: symptoms, causes and consequences

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that can be caused by an infection. It usually affects mothers during breastfeeding, although it can also occur in non-breastfeeding women and even in men.

Causes of mastitis From milk retention to bacterial infection

The causes of mastitis can be several:

- Milk retained in the breast.

- Blockage of the milk duct if the breast is not emptied with each feeding.

- Bacterial infection in the breast. Bacteria can enter through a crack in the skin of the nipple, through an opening in the milk duct or be generated in the culture medium that is stagnant milk.

Risk factors for mastitis include:

- Having already suffered mastitis during breastfeeding.

- Nipple injuries (wounds or cracks).

- Pressure on the breasts (very tight bra, seat belt, bag strap pressing on the breast, etc.).

- Excessive tiredness or stress.

- Poor nutrition.

- Smoking.

Symptoms of mastitis Swelling and pain in the breasts

Signs and symptoms of mastitis usually include:

- Breast tenderness and/or pain.

- Breast swelling and redness.

- Warmth in the breasts to the touch.

- General malaise.

- High fever.

- Untreated mastitis can lead to a pus abscess in the breast that requires surgical drainage.

Diagnosis of mastitis Physical examination and breast milk culture

Physical examination, description of symptoms, and culture of breast milk in nursing mothers can lead to a diagnosis of mastitis. Mammograms and/or ultrasounds will be requested to rule out other causes.

If symptoms persist after treatment, a biopsy will be requested.

Treatment and medication for mastitis Antibiotics and painkillers

If mastitis is caused by an infection, antibiotic treatment will be administered, which should be followed by a specialist. Taking a painkiller such as paracetamol may also be recommended.

You should not stop breastfeeding if you have mastitis; in fact, the symptoms may get worse if you stop breastfeeding suddenly. In addition, breastfeeding helps to clear up the infection. It can be helpful to breastfeed on the affected side first, as the baby will be hungrier and suck harder.

Prevention of mastitis No smoking, avoid breasts filled with milk

To prevent mastitis during breastfeeding, avoid having your breasts completely full for a long time before feedings, allow your baby to completely empty each breast, and change your breastfeeding position between feedings. Make sure your baby is properly attached to your breast during feedings. Massage your breasts during breastfeeding or pumping, working from the affected area towards the nipple. Then, apply cold to your breasts using cold compresses or ice.

It is also important to get plenty of rest and wear a bra that provides good support without putting too much pressure.