What Is Mastitis — Symptoms and Treatment

Problems during breastfeeding

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast which can happen to any woman but commonly affects breastfeeding women. The symptoms are — a sore, tender, painful breast, lump in breast or flu. Mastitis is the body’s reaction to a build-up of breast milk sitting in the breast (milk stasis). If the pressure of milk in the breast gets too high — when breasts are over full or engorged — it is thought that some of the components of breast milk leak into the surrounding breast tissue causing inflammation.

Symptoms of mastitis

The symptoms of mastitis can include:

• Soreness, pain, heat and swelling (inflammation) in the breast
• Areas of red or pink skin on the surface of the breast, may include red streaks or lines
• A sore lump or tender spot inside the breast
• Flu-like symptoms such as feeling achy, shivery or run down, headache
• Bacterial infection (may or may not be present)
• Increased sodium levels in breast milk making it taste saltier
• Usually affects one breast, rarely both breasts
• Some mothers notice pumped breast milk can be lumpy or clumpy

What causes mastitis?

Causes of mastitis typically include:

• A baby who is not emptying the breast properly — causing engorgement or blocked ducts e.g. a baby with a shallow latch, or using a poorly fitted nipple shield.
• A baby who is not emptying the breast often enough, perhaps due to scheduled feeds, use of a pacifier, separation of mother from baby for several hours, or the first time a baby sleeps through the night
• A baby who is feeding less due to illness
• Abrupt weaning, baby suddenly sleeping longer, supplementing with formula milk
• Anything pressing on the glandular tissue in the breast which could interfere with milk flow such as a tight bra or other clothing, the straps of a heavy bag or even mother’s sleeping position or a finger pressing firmly into the breast throughout a feed
• A true oversupply of breast milk
• A stressed mother who is trying to do too much or who is run down, poorly or not eating properly
• Busy mom, returning to work.

Treatment and Recovery :

• Emptying your breasts regularly.
• Good time to express our milk out is while having a warm water shower.
• Rest adequately.
• Cold ice pack wrapped in damp cloth placed against the sore, inflamed areas will help reduce the inflammation.
• Drink enough fluids
• Wear loose fitting clothes
• Nutritious foods that will help to strengthen immunity.
• Good time to visit a lactation consultant.
• Get help

Preventing mastitis

• Breastfeeding frequently with your baby in a deep, comfortable latch and hand expressing or pumping to comfort at the first sign of engorgement or a blocked duct can prevent mastitis.
• Breast compression and massage can also help with breast drainage.
• Sore, cracked nipples may increase the risk of a breast infection so washing damaged nipples daily with a mild soap is another preventative measure.

Should I stop breastfeeding my baby if I have mastitis ?

• Do not stop nursing. This increases risk of complications like abscess.
• It is important that you maintain a schedule and feed regularly.
• If it is painful, you can express milk and feed the baby.
• Though, you may feel feverish and uncomfortable, this will not affect your baby. The milk maybe a little saltier than usual.

Being aware about this issue is the first step in preventing it. So, dear mothers’, please rest well and pay attention to your health as the little one is dependent on you!