What is mastitis?
Mastitis is the inflammation of the ducts of the breast, which may lead to infection. If mastitis is linked with lactation, then it is known as lactation mastitis.
Breast abscess, which is the collection of pus within the breast, is a serious complication of mastitis.
Causes
Two causes of lactational mastitis are infection and milk stasis. Milk stasis is the main cause of mastitis in which stagnation of milk within the breasts occurs. If the milk is promptly removed as it is formed, it can prevent mastitis. Infections are most frequently the result of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus albus, and Escherichia coli.
Predisposing factors
There are various predisposing factors that increase the probability of a woman getting mastitis:
- Age
- Prior history of mastitis
- Poor maternal nutrition
- Extra milk supply
- Infrequent feedings
- Stress
- Trauma
- Fatigue
Treatment Options
The conservative approach to alleviate the symptoms of mastitis includes completely emptying the breast either through feedings or pumping. Symptoms of discomfort can be reduced with medications like ibuprofen and cold compresses.
If there is infection present, antibiotics are prescribed for mastitis. Antibiotics like dicloxacillin, clindamycin, and cephalexin are the choice of drugs administered in severe cases of mastitis.
Prevention
The chance of getting mastitis can be reduced if f breastfeeding is managed efficiently from the start and if the early signs and symptoms are diagnosed promptly and treated.
Facial abrasions and considered more serious as these have a higher risk of cicatrization and should be cleaned,debrided, and dressed daily. Dressings may require skin adhesives like the combination of gum mastic, styrax,alcohol, and methyl salicylate or tincture of benzoin.
Contact us
In case of urgent medical care assistance, AfterOurs Urgent Care offers immediate telemedicine services, where medical providers are available to offer assistance. Anyone who experiences signs and symptoms requiring urgent medical attention can simply book their appointment with AfterOurs Urgent Care to directly talk to an expert. If your medical issue is not appropriate for telemedicine, we will let you know and refer you to an in-person facility.
When to visit a doctor:
See a medical provider if you are experiencing breast pain, tenderness or swelling.
Treatment for mastitis is available at AfterOurs Urgent Care.