Mastitis is a common condition among new mothers, affecting around 1 in 10 breastfeeding women. It involves inflammation of the breast tissue and is often associated with moderate to severe infection, as well as significant discomfort or pain. Advanced mastitis can increase the possibility of intentionally stopping breastfeeding too early. Additionally, it might weaken you to the point that you struggle to care for or bond with your child. Mastitis can cause physical and psychological problems; so it's critical to identify the symptoms as soon as possible. Discomfort can be reduced with immediate treatment, making breastfeeding more comfortable for you and your baby.
Signs and symptoms of mastitis: The most common symptoms of mastitis often appear without warning. These symptoms can vary from one mother to another, but they usually include: Pain: If you have mild or moderate mastitis, you may feel unusual pain, even when compared to what you experienced when you first started breastfeeding, and it may be accompanied by breast warmth when touched. Breast swelling is also common. Many women also complain of severe pain during breastfeeding. Lumps in the breast tissue: You may experience a general thickening of the breast tissue, or you may notice some specific lumps. These lumps may be painful. Flu-like symptoms: It is possible to misinterpret the signs of mastitis for flu symptoms. If blocked ducts are not dealt with quickly, other problems may develop, such as pain, chills, or fatigue.
Causes of mastitis: In most cases, mastitis appears when infection occurs because milk is trapped inside the breast. However, the causes of this problem can vary among women. Common causes include: Blocked ducts: Before developing mastitis, women often experience blocked ducts, which prevent the milk from flowing properly. Changes in breastfeeding habits or schedules can cause blocked ducts. This problem often occurs when babies start to sleep through the night, as women may not empty their breasts as often as they used to. Signs of blocked ducts include localized pain. If left untreated, it can develop into complete breast inflammation and an abscess. This consequence may be due to bacteria entering the breast through the ducts or nipple cracks. Nipple blockage: Blocked nipples often occur in response to blocked ducts and can increase the chance of eventually developing mastitis. Smoking: A particular type of mastitis may be caused by smoking, due to the chemicals in cigarettes, which cause inflammation and may damage the milk ducts.
When should you visit a doctor if you have mastitis? Urgent medical care is crucial because not only can current symptoms be addressed, but also the underlying factors that may cause future problems with breastfeeding. It is important to consult a doctor as soon as you see signs of a blocked duct instead of waiting for the problem to develop.
Diagnosis of mastitis: Diagnosing mastitis usually involves a physical examination and inquiries regarding signs and symptoms. The diagnosis could be quick since the affected breast seems enlarged or irritated.
Treatments for mastitis: Treatments for mastitis achieve two main purposes: to treat the blocked ducts or blocked nipples responsible for the condition and to treat the resulting infection. The infection can be treated with a simple course of antibiotics.
Pain relievers can relieve breast tenderness or swelling. Mothers with mastitis should take care to use medicines that are safe for breastfeeding, such as paracetamol.
Dr. Ahmed Marzouk, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist, recommends guidelines for reducing breast fullness, including: • Alternate breastfeeding positions to drain the breast evenly. • Pumping to drain excess milk. • Applying heat to the obstructed breasts to encourage proper milk flow • Wearing loose clothing.
