Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland, affecting between 1 and 3% of breastfeeding women. It usually appears two or three weeks after delivery and can affect one breast at a time. Symptoms such as fever of 38 ºC, sore breasts, pus secretions, swelling, and tenderness may also appear. And although Mastitis will not harm the baby, it can reduce the amount of milk that the affected breast can produce. At FastlyHealwe explain the causes and treatment of Mastitis.
Table of Contents
Causes of Mastitis
Mastitis is caused by a bacterium called Staphylococcus aureus, which is found on the skin. It enters through any fissure, generally those found in the nipple. Thus causing an infection, causing swelling in the ducts that carry milk, and pain in the affected breast.
Another cause has to do with the accumulation of milk. Although it can occur during the lactation period, it is most common during the first month. In general, the baby’s arrival can make women feel tired, and not using the breastfeeding technique can cause cracks in the nipples, which will trigger a possible infection.
How long does Mastitis last?
Mastitis must be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible, so it will be necessary to perform an ultrasound to analyze it and rule out possible complications, such as abscess formation. A breast or biopsy should be performed if they continue to appear—even a mammogram.
Generally, if Mastitis is diagnosed and treated early, there should be improvement within 48 hours. Suppose you have any of the symptoms described above or have already been treated with antibiotics, and the symptoms persist. In that case, you should consult your doctor immediately since the complications of this condition usually require surgery to drain the abscesses that form.
Treatment for Mastitis
Antibiotics will be the most effective way to treat Mastitis. However, you can apply warm, wet towels to the affected breast to relieve swelling. Taking ibuprofen can help relieve pain. If these techniques do not work and you do not see improvement in 24 hours, you must consult your doctor, who will prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection.
Can you breastfeed with Mastitis?
Yes, it would be best if you kept doing it. Although the pain can be intense, keeping breastfeeding will help your baby continue feeding, but it will help the milk continue to circulate and thus avoid blockages in the breast ducts. If the baby does not manage to empty the milk content in each feeding, try to do it with an extractor, and if you cannot bear the pain, it is preferable to express the milk and give it to him with a bottle. Keep in mind that Mastitis will not affect your baby in any way.
Recommendations to avoid Mastitis
The keys to avoiding this ailment will be:
- Eat a balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Drink plenty of fluids, not just water, soups, broths, and liquid from fruits and vegetables, also benefit you.
- You must receive help in breastfeeding technique, thus avoiding cracks in the nipples and possible complications.
- Rest
When to go to the doctor?
See your doctor in the following circumstances:
- If any part of your breast becomes swollen or tender.
- If you have a fever when breastfeeding.
- If the lymph nodes in the armpits become swollen or tender.
- If after 48 hours you do not see improvement.
- If you have already been drugged and the symptoms persist.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Mastitis: causes and treatment, we recommend that you enter our category of Female reproductive system.
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.