If the area of the breast with a blocked duct develops swelling and redness, or if the mother develops a fever, this may be a sign of mastitis. Mastitis can also present as a generalized illness with fever, aches and pains, like the flu with generalized tenderness of the breast. Mastitis is caused by a bacterial infection and needs to be treated with antibiotics. Mastitis is most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species. Women who suspect they have mastitis need to be seen by their physician for proper evaluation and treatment.
Treatment involves antibiotics, warm or cool compresses to the affected area and rest.
Women who have mastitis and are on antibiotics can still breastfeed. A Patient Information Brochure is available here .