Mastitis

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast that occurs primarily in nursing mothers, although it can develop as a result of a breast injury. The condition is usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which are ubiquitous in our environment. In healthy people, they generally cause no problems, so long as they remain on the skin. But these organisms can start an infection when they enter the breasts through tiny skin cracks or fissures. Nursing mothers are susceptible because cracked nipples are common during the first month of breast-feeding. Improper nursing techniques or the use of a breast pump increases the risk.

In acute mastitis, one or both breasts become sore and swollen. The nipple may give off a yellow pus-like secretion, and the skin may be red and warm. There may also be a low-grade fever. The infection usually remains confined within an abscess.

Diagnostic Studies and Procedures

In nursing mothers, doctors usually diagnose mastitis on the basis of the symptoms. In some cases, however, it may be necessary to culture a sample of the breast discharge to identify the causative ' bacteria. In women who are not pregnant or breast-feeding, diagnosis may be more complicated. Blood tests and analysis of any breast discharge are usually required, and mammography and a breast biopsy may be indicated if something other than an infection is suspected. Medical Treatments Mild mastitis usually responds to self-care within a few days (see Self-Treatment). If the breast becomes painful or develops a discharge, or body temperature rises above 102°F (39°C). an antibiotic may be prescribed. However, many strains of staphylococcus are now resistant to penicillin, the former drug of choice. Thus, severe or chronic mastitis may require an alternative antibiotic. An abscess should be lanced and drained. Alternative Therapies Hydrotherapy. Take a hot shower and, while under the water flow, massage the breasts gently from their base toward the nipple This can help open the milk ducts, expel infectious material, and restore the flow of milk. Warm compresses may also alleviate pain. Self-Treatment
Self-care can resolve most mild cases.
? To ease pain and keep milk flowing, apply moist heat packs for 10 minutes every few hours and before nursing.
? Take acetaminophen for pain.
? Drink extra fluid to avoid dehydration, especially if you have a fever.
Nursing can usually continue because bacteria or other infectious mate- I rial is destroyed by the infants digestive juices. If the mother is taking an antibiotic, some can pass into her breast milk, but is not likely to harm the baby. However, he may develop diarrhea or other intestinal problems from it
If an abscess develops, it might be necessary to discontinue nursing at that breast until it heals. To maintain the flow of milk and prevent engorgement, be sure to express milk from It. Other Causes of Breast Soreness It is important to differentiate the swelling and soreness of mastitis from engorgement, an uncomfortable fullness in the breasts that develops two or three days after birth, signaling that the breasts are producing milk. This is normal and usually disappears as mother and infant develop their nursing skills-Some women have more severe engorgement, leading to breasts that are tense, tight, painful to touch, and lumpy in some areas. The absence of redness and fever helps rule out mastitis.
Mild to moderate breast swelling every month as pan of premenstrual syndrome is not unusual. Unexplained or persistent breast swelling and soreness may be a sign of breast cancer or other disease ana warrants prompt consultation with a physician.