Mastering Mastitis

Moreover, there are also instances that allow bacterial growth in the body. And one of those sites that are prone to infection is the breast. Yes! You’ve heard it right. Breasts could also be infected. The infection of the breast is called mastitis. 

Mastitis occurs when pathogens attack the breast of the person and causes infection usually called infectious mastitis. This infectious mastitis is usually caused by staphylococcus bacteria that enter in lesions or opening of the nipples. Sometimes the source of these bacteria is the mouth of the baby or the skin of the mother. However, there is also a non-infectious mastitis. This certain mastitis is caused by the blockage of the milk duct thus causing it to become inflamed. Usually this blockage is caused by improper expression of milk and use of restrictive clothing. Mastitis usually occurs to breastfeeding women. 

Who are At Risk? 

Most commonly it is developed among breastfeeding women, usually those with cracked nipples and with a history of mastitis from previous breastfeeding. Other risk factors are include restrictive clothing, especially the bra. In addition, those immunocompromised people such as those with AIDS and diabetes are susceptible to develop mastitis. At the same time those who use tobacco are also at risk to mastitis since research shows that there is a substance in tobacco that damages the milk duct that leads to infection. 

What are the Signs and Symptoms? 

There are different manifestations that could be present in people with mastitis. Thus, the signs and symptoms usually appear unexpectedly. Pain, redness, swelling and tenderness of the breast together with fever and general weakness are some of its signs and symptoms. Some may also have flu-like symptoms such as anxiety, breast enlargement, chills, exhaustion and pain. If these signs and symptoms are being manifested or if there are abnormal discharges from the nipples or prolonged unexplained pain, medical assistance is a must.  

How to Diagnose Mastitis 

So how do we diagnose this? Physical examination is usually done by the physician. Ultrasound could also be used if the physician is not certain of the findings. As for those with infectious mastitis, culture is needed to determine the microorganism and to prescribe the proper antibiotic. Furthermore, for those non-breastfeeding and unresponsive to treatment, biopsy and mammogram are performed to rule out certain type of breast cancer.  

What are the Prevention and Treatment of Mastitis? 

Mastitis could be prevented in so many ways. Here are some tips to prevent mastitis. First, breastfeed frequently as it can relieve breast engorgement. Then avoid using restrictive clothing and sleeping on the stomach. And lastly, take good care of yourself. 

In case these preventive tips do not work and mastitis could not be avoided, there are also some treatments for the disease. First is self-care, by having plenty of rest, fluid intake and a good balanced diet. Apply hot and cold compresses and mild massage could be done for breast pain. Then proper breastfeeding technique must be applied to ensure full emptying of the breast. Finally antibiotic may be required for those with infectious mastitis.