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Mastitis Treatment: Causes, Symptoms and Therapy

Mastitis treatment addresses inflammation of the breast tissue, most commonly during breastfeeding. Learn about causes, symptoms, and effective therapy options.

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Things worth knowing about "Mastitis Treatment"

Mastitis treatment addresses inflammation of the breast tissue, most commonly during breastfeeding. Learn about causes, symptoms, and effective therapy options.

What is Mastitis?

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that most commonly affects breastfeeding women (known as lactational mastitis), but can also occur outside of breastfeeding (non-lactational mastitis). It can be caused by bacterial infection, milk stasis, or mechanical irritation, and requires prompt treatment to prevent complications such as the development of a breast abscess.

Causes of Mastitis

The most common causes of mastitis include:

Milk stasis: Incomplete emptying of the breast leads to a build-up of milk, which promotes inflammation.
Bacterial infection: Most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, and less frequently by streptococci or other bacteria that enter through small cracks in the skin of the nipple.
Mechanical irritation: A bra that is too tight, incorrect breastfeeding technique, or sustained pressure on breast tissue.
Weakened immune system: Sleep deprivation, stress, and exhaustion following childbirth increase susceptibility.

Symptoms

Typical signs of mastitis include:

Redness, warmth, and swelling of the affected breast
Severe pain in the breast tissue
Hardened areas or palpable lumps
General feeling of illness, fever (above 38.5 degrees Celsius), and chills
Fatigue and flu-like symptoms

Diagnosis

Mastitis is usually diagnosed through a clinical examination by a healthcare provider who assesses the typical signs of inflammation. If an abscess is suspected or symptoms recur, an ultrasound examination of the breast may be performed. A milk culture or blood test can help identify the causative organism and guide targeted antibiotic therapy.

Treatment of Mastitis

General Measures

The most important initial step is to ensure regular and complete emptying of the breast through frequent breastfeeding or pumping. Rest, adequate fluid intake, and the application of cool compresses can help relieve symptoms. A well-fitting, supportive bra without excessive pressure is also recommended.

Medication

Antibiotics: In cases of bacterial mastitis, oral antibiotics are usually prescribed. Commonly used options include flucloxacillin, dicloxacillin, or cefalexin. Treatment typically lasts 10 to 14 days. In patients with penicillin allergy, alternatives such as erythromycin or clindamycin may be used.
Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication: Ibuprofen or paracetamol help reduce pain and fever and are generally considered safe during breastfeeding.

Treatment of a Breast Abscess

If an abscess (a collection of pus) develops despite treatment, a surgical procedure is required. The abscess can be drained either by needle aspiration or by a small surgical incision (incision and drainage).

Breastfeeding During Treatment

In most cases, breastfeeding can and should continue during mastitis treatment. Regular emptying of the breast speeds up recovery and is generally safe for the infant. A temporary interruption to breastfeeding may only be recommended in specific cases, such as certain bacterial infections or when an abscess is present.

Prevention

The following measures can help prevent mastitis:

Learning proper breastfeeding and latching technique
Ensuring regular and complete breast emptying
Caring for sore or cracked nipples promptly
Getting adequate rest and sleep during the breastfeeding period
Avoiding sustained tight pressure on the breasts

References

World Health Organization (WHO) - Mastitis: Causes and Management. WHO/FCH/CAH/00.13, Geneva 2000.
Jahanfar S. et al. - Antibiotics for mastitis in breastfeeding women. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2013.
Spencer J.P. - Management of mastitis in breastfeeding women. American Family Physician, 2008.

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