Breast Infection (Mastitis) Causes, Breastfeeding, Symptoms, Treatments Breast Infection Outlook for Breast Infections How the Breast Is Built The breast is composed of several glands and ducts that lead to the nipple and the surrounding colored area called the areola. The milk-carrying ducts extend from the nipple into the underlying breast tissue like the spokes of a wheel. Under the areola are lactiferous ducts. These fill with milk during lactation after a woman has a baby. When a girl reaches puberty, changing hormones cause the ducts to grow and cause fat deposits in the breast tissue to increase. The glands that produce milk (mammary glands) that are connected to the surface of the breast by the lactiferous ducts may extend to the armpit area. Breast Infection Causes Mastitis is an infection of the tissue of the breast that occurs most frequently during the time of breastfeeding . It can occur when bacteria, often from the baby's mouth , enter a milk duct through a crack in the nipple. Breast infections most commonly occur one to three months after the delivery of a baby, but they can occur in women who have not recently delivered as well as in women after menopause .

Other causes of infection include chronic mastitis and a rare form of cancer called inflammatory carcinoma . In healthy women , mastitis is rare. However, women with diabetes , chronic illness, AIDS, or an impaired immune system may be more susceptible. About 1%-3% of breastfeeding mothers develop mastitis. Engorgement and incomplete breast emptying can contribute to the problem and make the symptoms worse. Chronic mastitis occurs in women who are not breastfeeding . In postmenopausal women, breast infections may be associated with chronic inflammation of the ducts below the nipple. Hormonal changes in the body can cause the milk ducts to become clogged with dead skin cells and debris. These clogged ducts make the breast more open to bacterial infection . Infection tends to come back after treatment with antibiotics . Breast Infection Symptoms Breast infections may cause pain , redness, and warmth of the breast along with the following symptoms: Tenderness and swelling Fever and chills Abscess : Sometimes a breast abscess can complicate mastitis. Noncancerous masses such as abscesses are more often tender and frequently feel mobile beneath the skin. The edge of the mass is usually regular and well defined.

Indications that this more serious infection has occurred include the following: Tender lump in the breast that does not get smaller after breastfeeding a newborn (If the abscess is deep in the breast, you may not be able to feel it.) Pus draining from the nipple Persistent fever and no improvement of symptoms within 48-72 hours of treatment Continued When to Seek Medical Care Call your health care provider as soon as you feel any suspicious lump , whether you are breastfeeding or not. Call for an appointment if: You have any abnormal discharge from your nipples. Breast pain is making it difficult for you to function each day. You have prolonged, unexplained breast pain. You have any other associated symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain that interferes with breastfeeding, a mass or tender lump in the breast that does not disappear after breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding, call your doctor if you develop any symptoms of breast infection so that treatment may be started promptly. You may need to be evaluated in a hospital's emergency department if the breast pain is associated with other signs of an infection (such as a fever, swelling, or redness to the breast) and if your health care provider cannot see you promptly.

The below symptoms require emergency treatment: A persistent high fever greater than 101.5°F Nausea or vomiting that is preventing you from taking the antibiotics as prescribed Pus draining from the breast Red streaks extending toward your arm or chest Breast infections require treatment by a health care provider. Breast Infection Home Remedies After you see a doctor, try the following to help your breast infection heal. Pain medication : Take acetaminophen ( Tylenol ) or ibuprofen (such as Advil ) for pain. These drugs are safe while breastfeeding and will not harm your baby. Your doctor may prescribe a prescription strength pain reliever if your pain is severe and not relieved with over-the-counter medication. In mild cases of mastitis, antibiotics may not be prescribed at all. If you are prescribed antibiotics, finishing the prescription even if you feel better in a few days is very important. Frequent feedings: Do not stop breastfeeding from the affected breast, even though it will be painful and you may be taking antibiotics. Frequent emptying of the breast prevents engorgement and clogged ducts that can only make mastitis worse. If needed, use a breast pump to relieve pressure and completely empty the breast.

You can also breastfeed from the unaffected side and supplement with infant formula as needed. The infection will not harm the baby because the germs that caused the infection probably came from the baby’s mouth in the first place. Breastfeeding should be avoided in the infected breast when an abscess is present. Pain relief: A warm compress applied before and after feedings can often provide some relief. A warm bath may work as well. If heat is ineffective, ice packs applied after feedings may provide some comfort and relief. Avoid using ice packs just before breastfeeding because it can slow down milk flow. Drink plenty of water -- at least 10 glasses a day. Eat well-balanced meals and add 500 extra calories a day while breastfeeding. Dehydration and poor nutrition can decrease milk supply and make you feel worse. Continued Medications for Mastitis For simple mastitis without an abscess, oral antibiotics are prescribed. Cephalexin ( Keflex ) and dicloxacillin ( Dycill ) are two of the most common antibiotics chosen, but a number of others are available. The antibiotic prescribed will depend on your specific situation, your doctor’s preference, and any drug allergies you may have.

This medicine is safe to use while breastfeeding and will not harm the baby. Chronic mastitis in nonbreastfeeding women can be complicated. Recurrent episodes of mastitis are common. Occasionally, this type of infection responds poorly to antibiotics. Therefore, close follow-up with your doctor is mandatory. If the infection worsens in spite of oral antibiotics or if you have a deep abscess requiring surgical treatment, you may be admitted to the hospital for IV antibiotics. Surgery for an Abscess If an abscess is present, it must be drained. After injection of a local anesthetic, the doctor may drain an abscess near the surface of the skin either by aspiration with a needle and syringe or by using a small incision. This can be done in the doctor’s office or emergency department. If the abscess is deep in the breast, however, it may require surgical drainage in the operating room. This procedure is usually done under general anesthesia to minimize pain and completely drain the abscess. Antibiotics and heat on the area are also used to treat abscesses. Next Steps Mastitis does not cause cancer , but cancer can mimic mastitis in appearance.

If a breast infection is slow to go away, your health care provider may recommend a mammogram or other tests to rule out cancer . Follow-Up Care After a Breast Infection If you have a breast infection, you may be seen for a recheck in 24-48 hours. Take all antibiotics as prescribed. Take your temperature three times a day for the first 48 hours after treatment begins. Watch for fever. Call your doctor if you develop a high fever, vomiting, or increasing redness, swelling, or pain in the breast. Follow up with your doctor in one to two weeks to make sure that the infection has gone away. If the infection spreads or an abscess develops, you may require IV antibiotics or surgical treatment. Continued Mastitis Prevention Sometimes mastitis is unavoidable. Some women are more susceptible than others, especially those who are breastfeeding for the first time. In general, good habits to prevent mastitis include the following: Breastfeed equally from both breasts. Empty breasts completely to prevent engorgement and blocked ducts. Use good breastfeeding techniques to prevent sore, cracked nipples. Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids. Practice careful hygiene: Handwashing , cleaning the nipples, keeping your baby clean.

Outlook for Breast Infections When treated promptly, the majority of breast infections go away quickly and without serious complications. Most women can and should continue to breastfeed despite an episode of uncomplicated mastitis. With proper treatment, symptoms should begin to resolve within one to two days. A breast abscess may require surgical drainage, IV antibiotics, and a short hospital stay. A small incision is made and usually heals quite well. Prognosis for complete recovery is also good. Postmenopausal women with breast abscesses have a high rate of return after simple drainage and frequently need to follow up with a surgeon for more definitive treatment. Chronic infection can result if an abscess is not completely drained, and this can result in a poor cosmetic outcome. WebMD Medical Reference Reviewed by Renee A. Alli, MD on October 19, 2016 Sources Mastitis | Ask Dr Sears® | The Trusted Resource for Parents by drsearsinstitute in Common Problems 1 Comment Mastitis means that the breast is inflamed, and there is swelling, redness, tenderness and pain. There may be an infection, so it is wise to consult your health-care provider to determine whether or not an antibiotic is necessary.

A breast infection can become a breast abscess that requires surgical draining, but this can almost always be prevented by treating mastitis promptly. Signs of mastitis include: Part or all of the breast is intensely painful, hot, tender, red, and swollen. Some mothers can pinpoint a definite area of inflammation, while at other times the entire breast is tender. You feel tired, run down, achy, have chills or think you have the flu. A breastfeeding mother who thinks she has the flu probably has mastitis. Mothers with mastitis will sometimes experience these flu-like symptoms, even before they get a fever or notice breast tenderness. You have chills or feel feverish, or your temperature is 101F or higher. These symptoms suggest that you have an infection. You are feeling progressively worse, your breasts are growing more tender, and your fever is becoming more pronounced. With simple engorgement, a plugged duct, or mastitis without infection, you gradually feel better instead of worse. Recent events have set you up for mastitis: cracked or bleeding nipples, stress or getting run down, missed feedings or longer intervals between feedings.

PREVENTING MASTITIS The best way to prevent mastitis is to avoid the situations that set you up for it. Relieve engorgement promptly. Milk that doesn’t flow gets thicker and clogs the ducts, which is a set-up for mastitis. Breastfeed frequently. Don’t restrict the length of feedings. If you feel your breasts getting full, encourage your baby to nurse. You don’t have to wait for baby to tell you he’s hungry. Avoid sleeping on your stomach or so far over on your side that your breasts are compressed against the mattress. Take care of yourself and get plenty of rest (both of mind and body). REPEATED EPISODES OF MASTITIS Problems with recurrent mastitis are usually the result of irregular breastfeeding patterns: missing feedings, giving bottles in place of breastfeedings, or skipping pumping sessions when separated from the baby. Recurrent mastitis may also mean that mother’s immune system is generally run down, because of fatigue and stress. Mastitis is a sign that you need to take a closer look at your lifestyle and breastfeeding relationship and make some adjustments. TREATING MASTITIS Treating mastitis is much like treating engorgement only more urgent.

Try these suggestions in addition to those listed under engorgement. Rest, rest, rest. Mastitis is an illness, so take a medical leave from all responsibilities other than breastfeeding. Take your baby to bed with you and nurse. Rest relieves stress and replenishes your immune system. Alternate warm and cold compresses on your breasts. Cold compresses relieve pain; warmth increases circulation, which mobilizes infection-fighters in the inflamed area. Lean over a basin of warm water, stand in a warm shower, or soak in a warm bath. Warm water or a warm, wet towel is more effective than the dry heat of a heating pad. For cold compresses, use crushed ice in plastic bags or bags of frozen vegetables, covered with a thin dishtowel to protect your skin. Gently massage the area of tenderness. This increases circulation, helps to loosen any plugged ducts in the area, and mobilizes local immune factors. Try doing this while soaking the breast in a warm shower or bath. Breastfeed frequently on the affected side. If it hurts to nurse the baby, start the feeding on the breast that is not sore, and switch to the sore side after your milk lets down.

Breastfeeding is usually more comfortable when the milk is flowing. It’s important to empty the inflamed breast. As in other parts of the body, fluid that is trapped can get infected. Your baby can empty your breast more efficiently than a breast pump. However, if your baby is not nursing well, you may have to use a breast pump or hand expression to get the milk out. Vary the baby’s position at the breast, so that all the ducts are emptied. Take analgesics for fever and pain. Acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen are safe to take while breastfeeding. Unrelieved pain not only decreases your ability to produce milk, but suppresses your body’s ability to fight infection. Drink lots of fluids, as you would if you had the flu. Fever and inflammation increase your need for fluids. Boost your immune system with good nutrition. Sleep without a bra. At other times, wear a looser fitting bra that does not put pressure on the affected area. Or if possible, go without a bra. Don’t quit nursing at this point. Weaning increases the risk of a breast infection turning into a breast abscess that requires surgical draining.

Continuing to nurse your baby is the best treatment for engorgement, mastitis and breast infections. If baby refuses to nurse on the affected breast, it may be because inflammation of the milk glands increases the sodium content of your milk, giving it a salty taste. Most babies either don’t notice or don’t mind, and go right on nursing. Some may object to the change and fuss or refuse to nurse from that side. Try starting the feeding on the unaffected side and finishing on the salty side. As the inflammation subsides, your milk will soon return to its usual taste. DO YOU NEED ANTIBIOTIC TREATMENT? You can experience the pain and inflammation of mastitis without necessarily having a bacterial infection. Yet it is often difficult to tell whether mastitis has become a breast infection. Consult your healthcare provider as soon as you suspect mastitis. In our medical practice, we operate on the principle of better to treat mastitis earlier than later. Mothers who are given antibiotics too late in the course of mastitis are more likely to wean their babies from the breast, to have a more severe infection, and to have the infection recur. The following guidelines can help you both determine whether or not you need an antibiotic.

You may not need an antibiotic in the following situations: You do not have a history of frequent episodes of mastitis. You don’t feel that sick. You have not gotten progressively sicker over the last few hours. Your fever is not rising. The breast pain and tenderness is not increasing. You can easily correct whatever factors may have set you up for engorgement in the first place. Signs suggesting you do need antibiotic treatment: A history of frequent mastitis A fever that is rising. You are feeling progressively sicker as the hours go by. Your nipples are cracked, which allows bacteria to get into your breast tissue more easily. Which antibiotics are best? The type of bacteria involved in mastitis is usually staphylococcus, and the two safest and most effective classes of antibiotics against this organism are cloxacillins and cephalosporins. Other frequently prescribed antibiotics are Augmentin or erythromycin. All of these antibiotics are safe to take while breastfeeding. Even though you will feel better after a few days of taking antibiotics, be sure to complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor (usually ten days); otherwise you run the risk of the mastitis returning.

If you don’t feel better after two or three days on antibiotics, call your doctor. He or she may wish to prescribe a different medication. About Ask Dr. Sears AskDrSears.com is intended to help parents become better informed consumers of health care. The information presented in this site gives general advice on parenting and health care. Always consult your doctor for your individual needs. Learn More… Recent Posts One of the first things you learn as a new parent is how to change a diaper, and before long ... Resources Mastitis While Breast-Feeding-Topic Overview Credits What is mastitis? Mastitis is a breast inflammation usually caused by infection. It can happen to any woman, although mastitis is most common during the first 6 months of breastfeeding . It can leave a new mother feeling very tired and run-down. Add the illness to the demands of taking care of a newborn , and many women quit breastfeeding altogether. But you can continue to nurse your baby. In fact, breastfeeding usually helps to clear up infection, and nursing will not harm your baby. Although mastitis can be discouraging and painful, it is usually easily cleared up with medicine. What causes mastitis? Mastitis most often happens when bacteria enter the breast through the nipple.

This can happen when a nursing mother has a cracked or sore nipple. Going for long stretches between nursing or failing to empty the breast completely may also contribute to mastitis. Using different breastfeeding techniques and making sure your baby is latched on properly when nursing will help with emptying the breast and avoiding cracked nipples. View a slideshow on latching to learn how to get your baby to latch on. What are the symptoms? Mastitis usually starts as a painful area in one breast. It may be red or warm to the touch, or both. You may also have fever, chills, and body aches. Signs that mastitis is getting worse include swollen, painful lymph nodes in the armpit next to the infected breast, a fast heart rate , and flu -like symptoms that get worse. Mastitis can lead to a breast abscess , which feels like a hard, painful lump. What increases your risk of getting mastitis? You are more likely to get mastitis while breastfeeding if: You have had mastitis before. You delay or skip breastfeeding or pumping sessions. When you don't empty the breast regularly or completely, your breasts become engorged or too full, which can lead to mastitis.

You have cracked or irritated nipples, which can be caused by poor positioning or poor latching on. You have anemia . Anemia makes you tire more easily and lowers your resistance to infections like mastitis. Breastfeeding mothers can get mastitis at any time, but especially during the baby's first 2 months. After 2 months, the baby's feeding patterns become more regular, which helps prevent mastitis. Continued How is mastitis diagnosed? Your doctor can tell whether you have mastitis by talking with you about your symptoms and examining you. Testing is usually not needed. How is it treated? Antibiotics can usually cure mastitis. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics , take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of pills. The antibiotics will not harm the baby. If treatment doesn't work at first, your doctor may send a sample of your breast milk to a lab to help identify the type of bacteria causing the infection. You can help yourself feel better by getting more rest, drinking more fluids, and using warm or cold packs on your painful breast. Before breastfeeding your baby, place a warm, wet washcloth over the affected breast for about 15 minutes.

Try this at least 3 times a day. This increases milk flow in the breast. Massaging the affected breast may also increase milk flow. You can safely take acetaminophen (such as Tylenol ) for pain or a fever. You can take ibuprofen (such as Advil ) along with acetaminophen to reduce inflammation . Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Breastfeeding from your affected breast is safe for your baby. If starting with the affected breast is too painful, try feeding your baby with your healthy breast first. Then, after your milk is flowing, breastfeed from the affected breast. If your nipples are too cracked and painful to breastfeed from that breast, hand express or use a breast pump to empty the breast of milk. Try this each time that you cannot breastfeed. This is a good time to consider getting help from a lactation consultant . This person-usually a nurse-specializes in helping women with breastfeeding. You can breastfeed more effectively with less pain and help prevent future mastitis if you remember to change positions and make sure that your baby is latching on properly. Be sure to get treatment for mastitis.

Delaying treatment can lead to a breast abscess , which can be harder to treat. Frequently Asked Questions Mastitis: Signs, Treatment, and Prevention Poor Nutrition How to Treat Mastitis If you think you have mastitis, notify your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will examine your breasts and may need to prescribe an antibiotic . Don't worry about taking an antibiotic to treat mastitis, your doctor will prescribe one that's safe to use while you're breastfeeding. Medication, rest, and the regular removal of the breast milk from your breasts will help you to recover more quickly. With immediate treatment, you should begin to feel better within 48 hours. Can You Still Breastfeed if You Have Mastitis? If you have a healthy full-term baby, you DO NOT have to stop breastfeeding if you have mastitis. It's safe to breastfeed while you have mastitis; it will not harm your baby or interfere with the healing of your breasts. In fact, the best way to treat mastitis is to keep the breast milk flowing from your breasts by breastfeeding very often. If you cannot breastfeed, use a breast pump or hand express the milk from your breasts every few hours.

Mastitis and Your Breast Milk Your breast milk changes during mastitis. There is a rise in the levels of lactoferrin and antibodies such as secretory immunoglobin A (IgA) . These immune protecting substances protect your baby while you have an infection. Sodium and chloride levels also go up which can make your breast milk taste salty. Some infants don't like the change in the flavor of the breast milk and may refuse to breastfeed on the side with the mastitis. What You Can Do if You Have Mastitis: Continue to breastfeed or express your breast milk frequently. Breastfeeding is the best way to drain your breasts and relieve engorgement and plugged milk ducts. Start breastfeeding on the side that has the swelling. Your baby's suck will be stronger at the beginning of a feeding which may help to remove the breast milk and any clogged areas in your breast. If breastfeeding on the side with the mastitis is painful, it could interfere with your let-down reflex . If you're having trouble with let-down, move your baby to the other breast until let-down begins then put the baby back on the painful breast. Make sure that you're positioning your baby at your breast correctly , and your baby is latching on properly .

With a good latch, you're less likely to develop sore, cracked nipples, and your baby can remove the milk from your breasts and drain your breasts much better. Latch your baby on with her nose or chin pointing toward the clogged area of your breast. This position will help to remove the breast milk from that particular spot. Change your breastfeeding positions each time you breastfeed to help empty the different areas of your breasts. Massage the swollen, tender area to help loosen any breast milk that's clogged there. Start massaging the breast at the affected area and work your way up to the nipple. Eat a healthy, balanced diet . Place a warm compress on your breast or take a warm shower before breastfeeding to help with your let-down reflex and the flow of breast milk. A cold compress or cold cabbage leaves can be used after each feeding to relieve pain and swelling. Ask your doctor if you can take Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin (ibuprofen) . These over-the-counter medications can decrease pain and swelling. If your doctor gives you a prescription for an antibiotic, make sure to follow all the direction and take it for as long as it's prescribed to prevent the infection from coming back.

How to Prevent Mastitis You can’t completely prevent mastitis, but there are steps you can take to try to lower your risk of developing it. Use proper breastfeeding technique: When your baby is correctly latched on, he can remove your breast milk better, and he is less likely to cause damage to your nipples . Alternate feeding positions: Different nursing positions drain different areas of the breast which helps to prevent breast milk from getting clogged in certain areas. Change breast pads often: If you wear breast pads for leaking , make sure to change them frequently to stop the growth of bacteria. Wet breast pads can also break down the skin on your nipples, creating an entrance for infection. Do not allow your breasts to become engorged: Nurse your baby, pump, or hand express your breast milk very often to prevent breast engorgement and plugged milk ducts, which can lead to mastitis. Do not wear a tight bra: Tight bras or anything that confines, restricts or puts pressure on your breasts can cause a breast infection. Wean your baby gradually: Abrupt weaning can cause breast engorgement.

But, if you wean your baby slowly , you milk supply will gradually go down, lessening the chance for engorgement , plugged ducts and mastitis. Take care of yourself: Try to eat healthy, get enough calories , stay hydrated, and get enough rest. Stress and fatigue are risk factors for mastitis. 3 Complications of Mastitis If your symptoms do not get better on their own within 24 hours, it's important to contact your doctor. A delay in treatment can lead to complications, such as: #1. Early Weaning The development of mastitis may cause some women to consider weaning. Nursing with mastitis is safe, and it helps to clear the infection, so it's not necessary to stop breastfeeding. Actually, the sudden end of breastfeeding can make mastitis worse, and it's more likely to lead to an abscess. #2. A Breast Abscess An abscess is a tender, fluid-filled lump that can form in your breast as a result of mastitis. If you develop an abscess, your doctor may need to remove the fluid with a needle, or you may have to have a minor surgery. #3. Thrush Thrush is a fungal or yeast infection .

Yeast is naturally present on and in our bodies, but when it overgrows or moves to a place it shouldn't be, it can become a problem. Thrush can cause a breast infection by getting into the breast through damaged nipples, but it can also develop as a result of mastitis. The use of antibiotics to treat a breast infection can lead to an overgrowth of yeast. A yeast infection can cause red, burning nipples and breast pain, or you may see white patches or redness in your baby’s mouth. If you see thrush on your nipples or in your child’s mouth, call the doctor. Both you and your child will need treatment with an anti-fungal medication. And, since yeast spreads quickly and is difficult to get rid of, it's possible that other family members may need to be treated as well. Sources: Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. (2014). Clinical Protocol #4: Mastitis. Lawrence, Ruth A., MD, Lawrence, Robert M., MD. (2011). Breastfeeding A Guide For The Medical Profession Seventh Edition. Mosby. Riordan, J., and Wambach, K. (2014).

Breastfeeding and Human Lactation Fourth Edition. Jones and Bartlett Learning. Spencer, J. P. (2008). Management of mastitis in breastfeeding women. American Academy of Family Physicians, 78(6), 727-731. Continue Reading Mastitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments - Medical News Today Mastitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments Written by Christian NordqvistReviewed by Nicole Galan, RN 4 1 Mastitis is an infection in the tissue of one or both of the mammary glands inside the breasts. Mastitis usually affects women who are producing milk and breast-feeding. The patient often feels a hard, sore spot inside the breast. Mastitis can occur as a result of a blocked milk duct, or bacteria entering the breast through a break in the skin. Mastitis, also known as lactation mastitis, is thought to affect approximately 10 percent of all breast-feeding mothers. However, study results vary significantly, from a very small percentage of cases up to 33 percent . The condition tends to emerge during the first three months after giving birth, but it can occur up to 2 years later.

Some mothers mistakenly wean their babies when they develop mastitis. In most cases, breast-feeding can continue during mastitis. In the vast majority of cases, only one breast is affected. Sometimes, mastitis can affect women who are not lactating, but it is uncommon. In very rare cases, it can affect men. Contents of this article: Fast facts on mastitis Here are some key points about mastitis. More detail and supporting information is in the main article. Mastitis rarely affects more than one breast at a time In very rare cases, mastitis can affect males Mastitis often occurs because of a blocked milk duct Symptoms can include chills, fatigue , and a swollen breast. Symptoms of mastitis Mastitis occurs in around 10 percent of breast-feeding mothers.

Signs or symptoms may develop rapidly, and could include: An area of the breast becomes red and swollen The affected area of the breast hurts when touched The affected area feels hot when touched A burning sensation in the breast that may be there all the time, or only when breast-feeding The following symptoms are occasionally present: A feeling of malaise Causes of plugged duct Mastitis is usually because of a blocked, or plugged, duct which causes milk stasis (milk is produced, but then remains in the breast, rather than coming out during feeding). Milk stasis may be caused by: The baby not attaching to the breast properly during feeding The baby having difficulties sucking the milk out of the breast The baby being breast-fed infrequently Milk ducts being blocked because of pressure on the breast caused by, for example, tight clothing Anything that stops the milk from being properly expressed will usually result in milk stasis, which often leads to milk duct blockage. Causes of mastitis Bacteria do not generally thrive in fresh human milk. However, if the milk ducts are blocked, and the milk stagnates, the likelihood of infection grows.

Experts believe that bacteria, which exist on the surface of breast skin, enter the breast through small cracks or breaks in the skin. They also suggest that bacteria in the baby's mouth may get into the mother's breast during a breast-feed. Mastitis in women who are not lactating Women who are not lactating (not producing milk, not breast-feeding) may develop mastitis - this is not common and is referred to as periductal mastitis. Those who do develop non-lactating infectious mastitis tend to be regular smokers and in their late 20s to early 30s. Experts believe that smoking may damage the milk ducts, making them more susceptible to infection. Mastitis after nipple piercing Nipple piercing that is carried out by non-professional, unregistered piercing studios may raise the risk of mastitis occurring. Diagnosis of mastitis Mastitis is fairly easy to diagnose. A doctor will perform a physical examination and ask the patient questions about her symptoms. When symptoms are severe, or if the woman does not respond to treatment, the doctor may take a small sample of breast milk for testing. Tests will usually determine whether there is a bacterial infection, as well as the type of bacteria.

Identifying the type of bacteria helps the doctor select the most targeted treatment. If the physician believes the mastitis is caused by a breast-feeding problem, the patient may be asked to demonstrate how she breast-feeds. It is important that the mother does not feel she is being blamed or judged. Breast-feeding often requires some practice. Inflammatory breast cancer , a rare form of breast cancer , can also have similar symptoms of redness and swelling. In some rare cases, a biopsy may be taken to rule out breast cancer. Treatments for blocked duct Self-care techniques can often resolve a blocked duct: The mother needs to make sure she is drinking plenty of liquids and resting. Symptoms of pain and fever can be alleviated with acetaminophen (Tylenol). Some of it will pass through the breast milk, but not enough to harm the baby. Do not take Aspirin while breast-feeding. Feed the baby more frequently. If an individual cannot feed the baby more frequently, expressing the milk more often can be helpful. During a feed, start with the affected breast. This ensures that it is drained more regularly. After a feed, gently express any leftover milk. Ask a healthcare professional whether the baby is attaching to the breast properly.

Try different feeding positions until one is found that is more effective at draining the breast fully. Warming the breast before a feed can sometimes make it easier for the baby to get the milk out. Some stroking techniques can help with milk flow. Wearing very loose-fitting clothes until the mastitis has gone. When it has gone, avoid tight-fitting clothes. If the problems persist, there are a range of support groups, which include certified lactation consultants and La Leche League meetings. Treatments for mastitis Treatments for mastitis usually include an antibiotic , as well as the techniques listed above for blocked duct. The antibiotic may be passed through the breast milk to the baby. The baby might produce runny stools and become restless. Doctors say this does not affect the baby, and the effects will disappear as soon as treatment is completed. If the mastitis does not get better, the individual should see a doctor again. Complications of mastitis Recurrence - women who have had mastitis are more likely to get it again, compared with other women. In most cases, recurrence is due to late or inadequate treatment.

Abscess - if the mastitis is not treated properly, there is a risk that a collection of pus (abscess) can develop in the breast. Abscesses usually require surgical draining. Written by Christian Nordqvist Click the stars to rate this article Mastitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments Public / Patient Causes of mastitis - Health Exchange Causes of mastitis Mastitis can have different causes depending on whether it is infectious or not. Non-infectious mastitis Most cases of non-infectious mastitis are thought to be caused by milk stasis. Milk stasis occurs when the milk is not properly removed from your breast during breastfeeding.

It can be caused by: your baby not being properly attached to your breast during feeding – which may mean that not enough milk is removed or it may cause pain in your nipple your baby having problems sucking - for example, because they have a tongue-tie (a piece of skin between the underside of their tongue and the floor of their mouth) your baby having infrequent feeds or missing feeds – for example, when they start to sleep through the night your baby favouring one breast for breastfeeding - this can lead to milk stasis developing in the other breast pressure on your breast - for example, from tight-fitting clothing, an over-restrictive bra or sleeping on your front Milk stasis can cause the milk ducts in your breasts to become blocked. Experts are not sure why breast milk can cause the breast tissue to become inflamed. However, one theory is that it may be due to the presence of special proteins called cytokines in your breast milk. Cytokines Cytokines are proteins used by the immune system. They are passed on to your baby to help them resist infection. It may be that your immune system mistakes cytokines for a bacterial or viral infection and responds by inflaming the breast tissue in an effort to stop the spread of infection.

Infectious mastitis Fresh human milk does not usually provide a good environment in which bacteria can breed. However, if your milk ducts become blocked, milk can stagnate and an infection can develop. Exactly how bacteria enter the breast tissue has not been conclusively proven. It may be that: bacteria that usually live harmlessly on the skin of your breast enter through a small crack or break in your skin bacteria present in the baby’s mouth and throat are transferred during breastfeeding You may be at greater risk of developing infectious mastitis if: your nipple is damaged - for example, as a result of using a manual breast pump incorrectly; a breast pump is a device that is used to express milk from your breast your baby has a cleft lip or palate (an opening or split in their lip or roof of their mouth); this can also damage your nipple Mastitis in non-breastfeeding women In women who don’t breastfeed, mastitis is caused by an infection. This can be due to bacteria getting into the milk ducts through a cracked or sore nipple, or a nipple piercing. There are two different types of mastitis that affect women who are not breastfeeding.

These are: periductal mastitis - which usually affects women who are in their late 20s and early 30s, and is more common among smokers duct ectasia – which tends to affect women in the years before the menopause (when a woman’s periods stop), or after the menopause Find me a Breast Infection: What Are the Symptoms? More Information on Breast Infection What is Breast Infection? Mastitis is an infection of the tissue of the breast that occurs most frequently during the time of breastfeeding . This infection causes pain , swelling, redness, and increased temperature of the breast. It can occur when bacteria, often from the infant's mouth, enter a milk duct through a crack in the nipple . This causes an infection and painful inflammation of the breast. Breast infections most commonly occur one to three months after the delivery, but they can occur in women who have not recently delivered as well as in women after menopause . Other causes of infection include chronic mastitis and a rare form of cancer called inflammatory carcinoma . The breast is composed of several glands and ducts that lead to the nipple and the surrounding colored area called the areola .

The milk-carrying ducts extend from the nipple into the underlying breast tissue like the spokes of a wheel. Under the areola are lactiferous ducts. These fill with milk during lactation following delivery of an infant. When a girl reaches puberty , her body's changing hormonal makeup cause the ducts to grow and cause fat deposits in the breast tissue to increase. The glands that produce milk (mammary glands) that are connected to the surface of the breast by the lactiferous ducts may extend to the armpit area (axilla). A breast infection that leads to an abscess (a localized pocket or collection of pus) is a more serious type of infection. If mastitis is left untreated, an abscess can develop in the breast tissue. This type of infection may require surgical drainage. Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 12/15/2015 Medical Author: Mastitis | BabyCenter Last updated: April 2015 What is mastitis? Mastitis is what they call it when tissue in your breast becomes painfully inflamed. (It generally affects one breast at a time.) The area may be red, sore, hard to the touch, or unusually warm.

The swelling may or may not be caused by an infection. Signs of an infection include chills, a fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, and fatigue. What causes mastitis? Mastitis that's not due to an infection may be caused by milk staying in the breast (this is called "milk stasis"), engorgement , or plugged milk ducts . A breast infection may be caused by any of these as well as cracked or damaged nipples , which allow germs to enter the breast. Stress, fatigue, and being a first-time mom can increase your risk of mastitis. It can occur any time while you're breastfeeding, but it's most common in the first month after you have your baby. How can I treat mastitis? Try applying moist heat a few times a day, and nurse your baby frequently to keep the affected breast empty. (This may also help clear up any infection more quickly.) In the meantime, you can take ibuprofen to ease the pain. If your symptoms don't improve within 24 hours of trying these measures, see your healthcare provider. She may prescribe antibiotics, rest, and pain relievers in addition to hot compresses. How long will mastitis last?

If you have an infection and it's diagnosed early, it's easy and quick to treat. You should start feeling improvement within 48 hours of starting antibiotics, and it won't be long before you feel 100 percent better. Be sure to take all of the prescribed antibiotics to keep the infection from returning a few days or weeks later. If your breast remains tender and you still have a fever after a day or two, call your healthcare provider without delay. Ignoring mastitis can cause complications. An untreated infection can lead to breast abscesses, which require antibiotics and surgery (usually under general anesthesia) to drain the abscess. Causes of mastitis - Health Exchange Causes of mastitis See what the doctor sees with Map of Medicine Causes of mastitis In breastfeeding women, mastitis is often caused by a build-up of milk within the breast - known as milk stasis. In some cases, this build-up of milk can also become infected. In non-breastfeeding women, mastitis most often occurs when the breast becomes infected as a result of damage to the nipple. Mastitis in breastfeeding women Milk stasis Many cases of mastitis in breastfeeding women are thought to be caused by milk stasis.

This occurs when the milk is not properly removed from your breast during breastfeeding. It can be caused by: a baby not properly attaching to the breast during feeding - this may mean that not enough milk is removed (see breastfeeding position and attachment for advice on helping your child feed correctly) a baby having problems sucking - for example, because they have a tongue-tie (a piece of skin between the underside of their tongue and the floor of their mouth) infrequent or missed feeds - for example, when they start to sleep through the night favouring one breast for breastfeeding - for example, because one of your nipples is sore; this can lead to milk stasis developing in the other breast a knock or blow to the breast that damages the milk duct or the glands in your breast pressure on your breast - for example, from tight-fitting clothing (including bras), seat belts or sleeping on your front Milk stasis can cause the milk ducts in your breasts to become blocked, and can cause milk to build-up within the affected breast. Experts are not sure exactly why breast milk can cause the breast tissue to become inflamed. One theory is that the pressure building up inside the breast forces some milk into the surrounding tissue.

Your immune system may then mistake proteins in the milk for a bacterial or viral infection and responds by inflaming the breast tissue, in an effort to stop the spread of infection. Infection Fresh human milk does not usually provide a good environment in which bacteria can breed. However, milk stasis can cause milk to stagnate and become infected. This is known as infective mastitis. Exactly how bacteria enter the breast tissue has not been conclusively proven. It may be that the bacteria that usually live harmlessly on the skin of your breast enter through a small crack or break in your skin, or that bacteria present in the baby’s mouth and throat are transferred during breastfeeding. You may be at greater risk of developing infective mastitis if your nipple is damaged - for example, as a result of using a manual breast pump incorrectly or your baby having a cleft lip or palate (an opening or split in their lip or roof of their mouth). Mastitis in breastfeeding women is more likely to be caused by an infection if self-help measures to express milk from the affected breast have not improved symptoms within 12-24 hours. Read more about treating mastitis .

Mastitis in non-breastfeeding women In women who don’t breastfeed, mastitis is often caused by a bacterial infection. This can occur as a result of bacteria getting into the milk ducts through a cracked or sore nipple, or a nipple piercing. This type of mastitis is known as periductal mastitis. It usually affects women who are in their late 20s and early 30s, and is more common among women who smoke. Occasionally, mastitis can occur in non-breastfeeding women as a result of duct ectasia. This is when the milk ducts behind the nipple get shorter and wider as the breasts age. It typically occurs in women approaching the menopause. Duct ectasia is usually nothing to be concerned about, but in some cases a thick, sticky secretion can collect in the widened ducts, and this can irritate and inflame the duct lining. Find me a

Question: Mastitis affects what part of the body?
Answer: Breast