What are the main types of mastitis. How is mastitis diagnosed and treated. What are the risk factors for developing mastitis. How can mastitis be prevented. What are the potential complications of untreated mastitis. When should you seek medical attention for breast inflammation.

Understanding Mastitis: A Common Breast Inflammation

Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue that can occur for various reasons. It’s a condition that primarily affects women, especially those who are breastfeeding, but it can also occur in non-lactating women and even, rarely, in men. Understanding this condition is crucial for early detection and proper treatment.

What exactly is mastitis?

Mastitis is characterized by inflammation of the breast tissue, often accompanied by infection. It can cause significant discomfort and, if left untreated, may lead to more serious complications. The condition typically develops when milk ducts or glands become blocked or when bacteria enter the breast, usually through a crack in the nipple.

Types of Mastitis: From Lactational to Non-Lactational

There are several types of mastitis, each with its own specific causes and characteristics:

• Lactational mastitis: The most common form, occurring in breastfeeding women
• Non-lactational mastitis: Can affect women who are not breastfeeding and, rarely, men
• Periductal mastitis: Often associated with smoking, typically affecting women aged 40-50
• Granulomatous mastitis: A rare, chronic inflammatory condition

How common is lactational mastitis?

Lactational mastitis affects approximately 10% of breastfeeding women, typically occurring within the first three months postpartum. However, it can develop at any point during breastfeeding. Risk factors include improper latch, infrequent feedings, and abrupt weaning.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Mastitis

Identifying mastitis early is crucial for effective treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Breast tenderness or warmth
• Swelling of the breast
• Pain or burning sensation, continuously or while breastfeeding
• Skin redness, often in a wedge-shaped pattern
• Fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher
• General malaise or flu-like symptoms

Can mastitis occur without obvious symptoms?

While rare, some cases of mastitis may present with subtle symptoms. Some women might experience only mild discomfort or slight warmth in the breast without other obvious signs. However, most cases of mastitis involve noticeable symptoms that prompt medical attention.

Diagnosing Mastitis: From Clinical Examination to Imaging

Diagnosing mastitis typically involves a combination of clinical examination and patient history. In some cases, additional tests may be necessary:

1. Physical examination: The doctor will check for areas of tenderness, swelling, or redness
2. Medical history: Information about breastfeeding practices, recent breast trauma, or previous breast infections is crucial
3. Milk culture: If an infection is suspected, a sample of breast milk may be tested to identify the responsible bacteria
4. Ultrasound: This imaging technique can help detect abscesses or other complications
5. Mammogram or breast biopsy: In rare cases, these may be recommended to rule out other conditions

Why is ultrasound often used in diagnosing mastitis?

Ultrasound is a valuable tool in diagnosing mastitis because it can differentiate between simple inflammation and more complex issues like abscesses. It’s non-invasive, doesn’t use radiation, and can provide real-time images of breast tissue, making it particularly useful for guiding procedures such as abscess drainage if necessary.

Treatment Approaches: From Home Remedies to Medical Interventions

The treatment for mastitis depends on its severity and cause. Options include:

• Continued breastfeeding or pumping to prevent milk stasis
• Warm compresses to alleviate pain and promote milk flow
• Proper breast support and rest
• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen
• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Abscess drainage if necessary

Is it safe to continue breastfeeding with mastitis?

Contrary to what some might believe, it’s not only safe but beneficial to continue breastfeeding when you have mastitis. Emptying the breast regularly helps prevent milk stasis and can actually speed up recovery. The antibodies in breast milk can also help protect the baby from any potential infection.

Preventing Mastitis: Proactive Measures for Breast Health

While not all cases of mastitis are preventable, several strategies can reduce the risk:

• Ensure proper latch and positioning during breastfeeding
• Avoid prolonged engorgement by feeding or pumping regularly
• Alternate breasts for feeding starts
• Avoid tight-fitting bras or clothing that could restrict milk flow
• Practice good hygiene, especially when handling breasts and nipples
• Manage stress and get adequate rest
• For non-lactational mastitis, quitting smoking can significantly reduce risk

How effective is proper breastfeeding technique in preventing mastitis?

Proper breastfeeding technique is one of the most effective ways to prevent lactational mastitis. Ensuring a good latch and positioning helps the baby drain the breast effectively, reducing the risk of milk stasis and blocked ducts. Studies have shown that women who receive early education on proper breastfeeding techniques have a significantly lower incidence of mastitis.

Complications of Untreated Mastitis: When Inflammation Turns Serious

If left untreated, mastitis can lead to several complications:

• Breast abscess formation
• Chronic mastitis
• Sepsis in severe cases
• Decreased milk supply
• Early weaning due to pain or complications

How common are breast abscesses in cases of mastitis?

Breast abscesses are a relatively uncommon complication of mastitis, occurring in about 3-11% of cases. However, the risk increases significantly if mastitis is left untreated or if antibiotic treatment is delayed. Prompt treatment of mastitis is crucial in preventing this painful complication.

Special Considerations: Mastitis in Non-Lactating Individuals

While less common, mastitis can occur in non-lactating women and, rarely, in men. Causes may include:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Nipple piercings
• Certain medications
• Underlying health conditions
• Smoking (particularly for periductal mastitis)

Is periductal mastitis always related to smoking?

While smoking is a significant risk factor for periductal mastitis, not all cases are directly linked to tobacco use. However, studies have shown that up to 90% of women with periductal mastitis are smokers or have a history of smoking. The exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed that smoking may damage the ducts beneath the nipple, making them more susceptible to infection.

Understanding mastitis in all its forms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and effective treatment. Whether you’re a breastfeeding mother, a non-lactating individual, or a healthcare provider, being aware of the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for mastitis can help ensure better breast health outcomes. Remember, early intervention is key in managing this condition and preventing potential complications.

[Inflammations of the mammary gland]

Review

. 2017;133(9):855-61.

[Article in

Finnish]

Tuomo Meretoja, Hanna Ihalainen, Marjut Leidenius

• PMID:

  29240317

Review

[Article in

Finnish]

Tuomo Meretoja et al.

Duodecim.

2017.

. 2017;133(9):855-61.

Authors

Tuomo Meretoja, Hanna Ihalainen, Marjut Leidenius

• PMID:

  29240317

Abstract

Breast inflammation, i.e. mastitis is an entity with a variable etiology and severity, typically affecting women of fertile age. In most cases, anamnesis reveals the etiology of the disease, bacterial puerperal mastitis associated with breastfeeding being the most common. Periductal mastitis is a breast inflammation typically associated with smoking in women of 40 to 50 years of age, localized to the region of the areola. Granulomatous mastitis and other rare breast inflammations usually require specialized care. Regardless of etiology, treatment of acute inflammation depends on the clinical picture and, with the exception of puerperal mastitis, emergency ultrasound imaging is often necessary in order to detect an abscess and drain it. In all cases of mastitis, the possibility of underlying malignancy as well as inflammatory breast cancer should be kept in mind. If specialized care is required, breast inflammation is treated in a breast, general or plastic surgery unit.

Similar articles

• Periductal mastitis. Clinical characteristics and outcome.

  Ammari FF, Yaghan RJ, Omari AK.

  Ammari FF, et al.
  Saudi Med J. 2002 Jul;23(7):819-22.
  Saudi Med J. 2002.

  PMID: 12174233

• [The etiology, pathogenesis and clinical picture of nonlactational mastitis].

  Korolev MP, Kutushev FKh, Spesivtsev IuA, Chulikov OV, Pogorelyĭ SN, Kolobov AV.

  Korolev MP, et al.
  Vestn Khir Im I I Grek. 1996;155(3):16-8.
  Vestn Khir Im I I Grek. 1996.

  PMID: 8966929

  Russian.

• Management of mastitis in breastfeeding women.

  Spencer JP.

  Spencer JP.
  Am Fam Physician. 2008 Sep 15;78(6):727-31.
  Am Fam Physician. 2008.

  PMID: 18819238

  Review.

• Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis. Clinical presentation, radiological features and treatment.

  Aldaqal SM.

  Aldaqal SM.
  Saudi Med J. 2004 Dec;25(12):1884-7.
  Saudi Med J. 2004.

  PMID: 15711659

• [Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis: apropos of 8 cases and review of the literature].

  Belaabidia B, Essadki O, el Mansouri A, Squalli S.

  Belaabidia B, et al.
  Gynecol Obstet Fertil. 2002 May;30(5):383-9. doi: 10.1016/s1297-9589(02)00337-5.
  Gynecol Obstet Fertil. 2002.

  PMID: 12087933

  Review.
  French.

See all similar articles

Cited by

• Clinically Malignant Breast Lesion in an Adolescent Girl: A Case Report.

  Sosnowska-Sienkiewicz P, Mańkowski P.

  Sosnowska-Sienkiewicz P, et al.
  Clin Pract. 2021 Jul 2;11(3):435-440. doi: 10.3390/clinpract11030058.
  Clin Pract. 2021.

  PMID: 34287288
  Free PMC article.

• Licochalcone A Protects the Blood-Milk Barrier Integrity and Relieves the Inflammatory Response in LPS-Induced Mastitis.

  Guo W, Liu B, Yin Y, Kan X, Gong Q, Li Y, Cao Y, Wang J, Xu D, Ma H, Fu S, Liu J.

  Guo W, et al.
  Front Immunol. 2019 Feb 25;10:287. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00287. eCollection 2019.
  Front Immunol. 2019.

  PMID: 30858849
  Free PMC article.

Publication types

MeSH terms

Inflammation of the mammary gland

Thank you for your comments.

Thank you for reviewing this article.

Your review hasn’t been inserted (one review per article per day allowed)!

Contents

• 1 Non-specific inflammations
  • 1.1 Mastitis puerperalis
  • 1.2 Breast abscess
  • 1.3 Mastitis nonpuerperalis
• 2 Specific inflammations
  • 2.1 Tuberculosis
  • 2.2 Actinomycosis
• 3 Links
  • 3.1 Related Articles
  • 3. 2 Source

Non-specific inflammations[edit | edit source]

In practice, we divide them into inflammations in the puerperium (six weeks of pregnancy) and beyond.

Mastitis puerperalis[edit | edit source]

Nosocomial infection shortly after childbirth in connection with breastfeeding due to insufficient emptying of the gland and the appearance of small ragads on the nipples. The causative agent is usually Staphylococcus aureus. Clinically, we find an increase in body (above 38 °C) and local temperature with palpable pain and chills. Later, there may be an inflammatory infiltrate, redness and edema of the breast, inflammatory nodules in the axilla. We treat ATB according to sensitivity in combination with metronidazole or try to empty the gland (atraumatically), then oxytocin.

Breast abscess[edit | edit source]

Palpable fluctuation with local soreness and signs of inflammation. In diff.dg. simple retention of milk (temperature below 38 °C) must be distinguished. An incision, event, is offered as therapy. counterincision and evacuation with drainage and lavage. The incisions are made in an arc at the point of greatest pain.

Mastitis nonpuerperalis[edit | edit source]

A rare inflammation most often at the age of 20-40 years. It is caused by ductectasia, periductal mastitis, or arises secondary to infection of cysts and hematomas – these inflammations are mostly around the areola. Clinically, we find focal redness with symptoms of non-specific inflammation.

Due to the rare occurrence of this inflammation, it is necessary to consider inflammatory carcinoma in the differential diagnosis.

We treat with puncture, incision, drainage and ATB.

In practice, tuberculosis and actinomycosis are important.

Tuberculosis[edit | edit source]

Clinically, we find a stiff, bumpy, painless infiltrate, often moving against the surroundings. After tissue necrosis , a cold abscess develops , possibly. fistulas are formed. BK fails to cultivate.

We treat with antituberculosis drugs, local excision, possibly. mastectomy.

 For more information see Tuberculosis.

Actinomycosis[edit | edit source]

A rare disease of the breast caused by actinomycetes. However, it is often a metastasis of the primary disease in another part of the body (lungs). We feel tumorous induration, sometimes we see an abscess with fistulas.

We treat with megadoses (10-20 million) of crystalline penicillin. Residual tumors are widely extirpated.

 For more information see Actinomycosis.

Related Articles[edit | edit source]

• Infiltrating mammary carcinoma (preparate)

Source[edit | edit source]

• BENEŠ, Jiří. Studijní materiály [online]. ©2008. [cit. 2011-03-10]. <http://jirben2.chytrak.cz/materialy/chira/obecka.doc>.

Mastitis in women: causes, symptoms, treatment at home

Content

• 1 Mastitis in women: causes, symptoms and treatments
  • 1. 1 Mastitis in women: causes, symptoms, treatment at home
    • 1.1.1 What is mastitis?
  • 1.2 Causes of mastitis in women
  • 1.3 What are the symptoms of mastitis in women?
  • 1.4 Diagnosis of mastitis in women
  • 1.5 Treatment of mastitis: effective methods
  • 1.6 Prevention of mastitis in women: how to prevent the disease?
  • 1.7 Medicines for the treatment of mastitis
  • 1.8 What folk remedies can be used to treat mastitis
    • 1.8.1 Compresses
    • 1.8.2 Herbal decoctions
    • 1.8.3 propolis
  • 1.9 Diet for mastitis — an important aspect of treatment
  • 1.10 Exercise for mastitis: how can it help?
  • 1.11 How do I take care of my breasts after recovering from mastitis?
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 How does mastitis occur in women?
      • 1.13.0.2 What symptoms accompany mastitis?
      • 1.13.0.3 Can mastitis be treated at home?
      • 1. 13.0.4 Can mastitis occur in a woman who is not breastfeeding?
      • 1.13.0.5 What are the risks of mastitis in women?
      • 1.13.0.6 How to prevent mastitis?

Find out what mastitis is, causes, symptoms and treatments. Get detailed information on how to prevent the development of the disease and restore breast health.

Mastitis is a contagious and inflammatory disease of the mammary glands, which often occurs in women. It occurs as a result of a violation of the drainage function of the mammary glands and can be caused by various reasons.

The main cause of mastitis is the microorganism Staphylococcus aureus, which enters the mammary gland through an injury to the nipple. However, there are other factors that can cause the development of the disease, such as decreased immunity, hormonal imbalance, improper breastfeeding, and others.

Symptoms of mastitis include breast pain, swelling, redness of the skin, fever, weakness and headache. If the disease is not treated on time, it can lead to the formation of purulent abscesses.

It is important to note that mastitis should not be ignored, as this can lead to serious complications.

Mastitis can be treated with both medication and folk remedies. It is recommended to drink more fluids, use warm compresses and express milk regularly. It is also worth consulting a doctor and taking a course of antibiotics, which will help destroy the bacteria that cause the disease.

In this article, we looked at the causes, symptoms, and treatments for mastitis in women. It must be remembered that the disease is serious and requires immediate treatment.

Mastitis in women: causes, symptoms, treatment at home

What is mastitis?

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast that usually affects women during lactation or during habituation to milk feeding. This condition can present with a variety of symptoms, including pain, swelling, and redness of the breasts.

To treat mastitis, see a doctor who may prescribe antibiotics or other medicines. However, there are also effective home treatments, such as using warm compresses, breast massage, and eating certain foods that encourage milk to flow out of the ducts.

• • Signs of mastitis:
    1. Chest pain;
    2. Swelling and redness of the chest;
    3. High body temperature;
    4. Cold and hot flashes;
    5. General weakness.

If you notice signs of mastitis, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. However, there are some home treatments that you can try that can relieve painful symptoms and speed up your recovery. For example, applying warm water compresses or using herbal teas can help reduce inflammation and increase milk production.

Causes of mastitis in women

Mastitis is a breast disease in women that occurs when the channels in the breast become clogged with milk fluid. The manifestation of mastitis can be influenced by various factors.

• • • Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding women have an increased risk of mastitis due to increased milk supply. This is especially true for young mothers in the first few weeks after childbirth.
    • Injuries: Blows and pressure can lead to mechanical damage to breast tissues and, as a result, to mastitis.
    • Infections: Infections can cause breast inflammation and dysfunction. Certain infections, such as AIDS, HIV, and herpes, can also increase the risk of mastitis.

These are just a few of the many reasons that can lead to the development of mastitis in women. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, to be under constant close monitoring of breast health and to consult a doctor at the first sign of the disease.

What are the symptoms of mastitis in women?

Mastitis is a disease that manifests itself in women in a sharp soreness and swelling of the breast.

The diagnosis of mastitis can be clarified by mammography and ultrasound examination of the mammary glands.

• • • Lumps or swelling in the breast
    • Discharge from the nipple
    • Unpleasant sensation when touching the breast
    • Fever
    • Increased morbidity lymph nodes in the armpit

If you notice these symptoms in yourself, it is recommended to see a doctor for diagnosis and effective treatment.

Diagnosis of mastitis in women

Mastitis is an inflammatory process that can lead to the formation of pustules in the mammary gland in women. To diagnose mastitis, the doctor uses several methods. First, a visual examination of the mammary glands is performed. The doctor looks for signs of inflammation, such as redness, swelling, or pain.

To better diagnose mastitis, your doctor may order a mammogram or an ultrasound of your breasts. These methods allow you to assess the structure of tissues and identify the presence of pustules or other abnormalities.

An additional method for diagnosing mastitis is the study of secretions from the mammary gland. The doctor takes a sample of milk and sends it to a laboratory to check for the presence of bacteria or other causative agents of inflammation.

In some cases, a biopsy may be needed to rule out breast cancer. This is a procedure in which a doctor takes a tissue sample from the breast for laboratory testing.

• • • Important: If symptoms of mastitis appear, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment!

Treatment of mastitis: effective methods

Mastitis is a serious disease that requires complex therapy. The effectiveness of treatment directly depends on the degree of the disease and the timeliness of contacting a doctor.

Medications: Mastitis requires antibiotics, which are chosen according to the type of infection. Additionally, anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs are prescribed, as well as drugs that improve the outflow of milk.

Physiotherapy treatments: Physiotherapy treatments such as ultrasound and laser treatment help relieve pain and inflammation and speed up the healing process.

Folk remedies: decoctions and infusions of medicinal plants such as calendula and sage may have a positive effect in combination with drugs. But it is worth remembering that self-medication can lead to a deterioration in the condition, so you need to consult a doctor before using folk remedies.

It is important to know that complications such as ulcers and abscesses can develop with mastitis, so it is necessary to undergo all the treatment procedures that the doctor prescribes and not interrupt the course of treatment ahead of time.

Prevention of mastitis in women: how to prevent the disease?

Mastitis is a disease in which an inflammatory process occurs in the mammary gland. One of the effective methods of prevention is the correct selection of underwear. Women need to wear bras that fit snugly and don’t restrict movement or put pressure on their breasts.

Regular breast massage is an effective way to prevent mastitis. But you should not massage during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Breast hygiene should also be closely monitored. It is necessary to carry out daily sanitary and hygienic procedures and monitor the cleanliness of linen, especially during menstruation.

We must not forget about a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding bad habits will help boost your immune system and prevent mastitis.

Finally, it is important to avoid overwork and stressful situations. They can have a negative effect on the mammary gland and contribute to the development of mastitis.

Mastitis drugs

Mastitis is an inflammatory disease of the breast that can cause painful swelling and discharge from the nipple. To effectively treat mastitis, you need to take a course of drug therapy, which may include the following drugs:

• • • Antibiotics. They are used to fight a bacterial infection that can cause mastitis. Depending on the type of infection, different antibiotics are prescribed.
    • Analgesics. They help reduce pain and reduce inflammation. Usually prescribed when there is pronounced pain.
    • Hormonal agents. They are used when mastitis is caused by hormonal changes in the body. One of the most effective drugs in this case is progesterone.

In addition, sometimes doctors may prescribe immune-boosting drugs, blood circulation drugs, and drainage agents to speed up the process of removing pus from the breast.

What folk remedies can be used in the treatment of mastitis

Mastitis is a common disease among women. But in addition to drug therapy, alternative methods can also help in the treatment of mastitis. Here are some helpful tips.

Compresses

Hot and cold chest compresses can help reduce inflammation, pain and flushing of the chest. For a cold compress, you can use pieces of ice, and for a hot compress, a heating pad or hot water dipped in gauze. Compresses should be done for 20-30 minutes several times a day.

Herbal decoctions

Many herbs help to eliminate the symptoms of mastitis. For example, couch grass, thyme, St. John’s wort and nettle can be used to prepare decoctions that not only reduce pain, but also improve the general condition of the body.

Bee venom and propolis

Bee venom and propolis have antibacterial properties and may help fight infections that cause mastitis. People who do not have an allergic reaction to bee products can use these products externally.

• • • Propolis chest compresses;
    • Breast massage with propolis oil;
    • Baths with the addition of bee venom.

But before using these products, be sure to consult your doctor, as they can cause an allergic reaction and lead to a worsening of the disease.

Diet for mastitis is an important aspect of treatment

Mastitis is one of the most common breast diseases in women, and nutrition plays an important role in the treatment of this disease.

Also eat foods rich in vitamin E, such as nuts, seeds and green vegetables. This vitamin helps repair tissues and strengthen the immune system.

It is worth noting that alcohol and smoking negatively affect the health of the mammary glands, so you should completely eliminate them from your diet.

The general recommendation is to eat natural foods, get the necessary vitamins and minerals, eat proteins in moderation and not get carried away with fats and carbohydrates.

Mastitis exercises: how can they help?

Mastitis in women causes severe discomfort and requires immediate treatment. However, in addition to traditional methods, there are alternative ways to deal with the disease. For example, specific exercises for the chest muscles can help restore their tone and relieve pressure on the affected breast gland.

Stretching exercises: Stretching the chest muscles helps increase blood circulation and allows the gland to free itself from congestion. Experts recommend holding your hands in various positions: above your head, behind your back and at chest level.

Pushback Exercises: These exercises require support, which can be obtained from a wall or counter. Bending and lowering your arms helps to stretch the pectoral muscles and relieve tension.

Compression exercises: Compression of the chest is done (alternately on the right and left). This exercise helps to improve the drainage process and move stagnant fluid.

Opening exercises: Bring the hands together and then slowly spread them apart. This exercise also helps stretch the muscles and relieve pressure on the affected gland.

How to take care of your breasts after recovering from mastitis?

After recovery from mastitis, it is very important to continue to monitor the health of the breast in order to avoid recurrence of the disease. To do this, you should conduct regular examinations with a doctor and independently examine the chest.

Every day it is necessary to carry out hygiene procedures that thoroughly wash and treat the breasts. It is advisable to use hypoallergenic products so as not to cause irritation.

To prevent blockage of the milk ducts, make sure that the breast is completely emptied after feeding or expressing breast milk.

It is possible to strengthen the pectoral muscles well with the help of special exercises and breast massage. Self-massage can be done after a shower or bath, using breast oils or creams.

It is not recommended to wear tight and rigid clothes that will compress the chest and create discomfort. It is important to choose the right bra size that will support your breasts without squeezing or irritating your skin.

Related videos:

Q&A:

How does mastitis occur in women?

Mastitis in women is usually caused by an infection in the breast transmitted through the milk ducts. This infection can be caused by staphylococci or streptococci, which are usually found on the skin around the nipple. Also, mastitis can occur due to the clamping of milk in the milk ducts, which leads to the creation of blockades and the development of inflammation.

What symptoms accompany mastitis?

Symptoms of mastitis may include chest pain, a feeling of swelling and heaviness in the chest, redness and warmth around the diseased area, fever, feeling tired and sore when touched. Pustules or abscesses in the chest may also appear, which requires a quick visit to the doctor.

Can mastitis be treated at home?

Yes, mastitis can be treated at home, but only if it does not lead to an abscess or other complications. Treatment at home often includes rest, extra feeding or pumping, antibiotics, and pain relief. In addition, it is important to maintain breast hygiene and avoid pressure on the breasts.

Can mastitis occur in a woman who is not breastfeeding?

Yes, mastitis can occur in women who are not breastfeeding. This may be due to an infection in the breast transmitted through the milk ducts, but mastitis may also be due to other causes such as trauma to the breast or an allergic reaction.

What are the risks of mastitis in women?

Although mastitis is a reversible condition, it can lead to complications if not treated promptly. Risks may include developing an abscess in the chest, requiring surgery, and spreading the infection to other parts of the body, such as the blood or lungs. Rarely, mastitis can lead to loss of milk ducts or restriction of breast function.

How to prevent mastitis?

To help prevent mastitis, women are advised to follow a few tips: breastfeed frequently without limiting breastfeeding, wear a supportive bra, avoid pressure on the breasts, maintain breast hygiene, avoid breast injury, and do not smoke. It is also recommended to monitor your general health and watch for signs of possible mastitis in order to seek help in time.

Mastitis (in women): symptoms, how to treat

Pain, redness of the skin in the area of ​​the mammary glands, bursting pains in the mammary glands – these symptoms may indicate the development of such a serious disease as mastitis. What is this pathology?

Pain, redness of the skin in the area of ​​the mammary glands, bursting pains in the mammary glands – these symptoms may indicate the development of such a serious disease as mastitis. What is this pathology? Who and why does it occur? How to prevent its development? The topic of mastitis is covered by the surgeon of the “Expert Clinic” Smolensk Efim Semyonovich Asnin.

– Efim Semyonovich, what is mastitis? Who usually develops it?

— Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland. It develops most often in women after pregnancy and the birth of a baby, as it is mainly associated with a violation of the normal outflow of breast milk (lactostasis). They constitute the risk group for the disease.

Mastitis of non-lactating (non-milk-producing) glands occurs, as a rule, in women under 30 and over 50 years of age.

– How common is mastitis?

– 90% of all cases of mastitis occur during the period of breastfeeding, i. e., the inflammatory process develops in the lactating mammary gland. According to statistics, about 16% of breastfeeding women suffer from inflammation of the mammary glands. Among them, the vast majority of primiparas.

Mastitis in non-breastfeeding women occurs in 5-10% of cases.

“Breastfeeding is painful,” young mothers say. Is breastfeeding always painful for a woman? Quote from “Which of these is NOT true about breastfeeding?”

— What are the causes of mastitis?

– The main reason is the penetration of pathogenic microflora into the tissue of the mammary glands, in particular a bacterial infection (most often staphylococcal). If a woman does not properly attach her baby to her breast, if her nipples are not prepared, cracks may appear on them, forming an entrance gate for the penetration of microbes. Incomplete pumping of milk from the breast contributes to the development of lactostasis, and this is a favorable environment for the development of inflammation.

Mastitis can also be caused by a hormonal imbalance (namely, excessive production of the hormone prolactin, dysfunction of the thyroid gland), or abrupt weaning of the child from the breast.

Incorrect implantation, nipple piercings, and trauma to the mammary gland can also lead to the development of inflammation in it.

— Tell us about the types of mastitis

— Acute and chronic mastitis, unilateral and bilateral, are distinguished along the course. By the nature of the inflammatory process, they are serous, infiltrative, purulent, abscessing, gangrenous, phlegmonous. The first two forms are characterized by a limited focus of inflammation. When ensuring a good outflow of milk, they usually do not suppurate. All other forms of the inflammatory process require surgical intervention.

— What are the symptoms of mastitis?

— Painful sensations in the mammary gland when feeding a child, bursting pains in it, thickening of the gland tissue, reddening of the skin in this area, cracks and abrasions on the nipple and around it, enlargement of nearby lymph nodes, signs of intoxication — high fever, chills, headache. These symptoms should be a signal for a woman to see a doctor immediately.

In more advanced cases, discharge from the mammary glands mixed with pus and blood can be observed.

— What makes up the diagnosis of mastitis?

– First of all, from the collection of complaints and anamnesis, examination by a doctor. If necessary, it is recommended to conduct a series of blood tests, ultrasound of the mammary glands, bacteriological seeding of secretions from the mammary glands for microflora.

Read related materials:

What does breast ultrasound show?
Bacteria: find and identify. What will bakposev tell about?

— How is mastitis treated?

— Treatment tactics are selected by the doctor individually, depending on the form and severity of the inflammatory process. Of the conservative methods of treatment, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory therapy, some types of physiotherapy procedures are used.

If the inflammatory process progresses or there are cavities filled with pus in the gland, surgical intervention may be required.

Read related materials:

How to use antibiotics correctly? Instructions for use
Why don’t antibiotics help?

— How do you feel about traditional methods of treating mastitis?

– I can recommend proven folk remedies only after a personal examination of the patient, if I consider that they will be effective in this case.

— What should be done to avoid mastitis?

– First of all, observe the rules of personal hygiene when feeding and caring for the mammary glands, prevent congestion by regularly feeding the child with both glands in turn, followed by decanting milk residues. Contact obstetricians or lactation consultants for information on the technique and rules of feeding, pumping. It is important that a woman wears properly sized underwear made from natural fabrics.