Mastitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of mastitis?

Mastitis is a painful and uncomfortable condition that occurs when the breast tissue becomes inflamed or infected. The symptoms of mastitis can vary in severity and may include:

1. Pain: Mastitis can cause pain in the breast, which can range from mild to severe.
2. Swelling: The breast may become swollen and tender to the touch.
3. Redness: The breast may become red and warm to the touch.
4. Heat: The breast may feel warm or hot to the touch.
5. Discharge: Yellow or greenish discharge may be present in the nipple.
6. Swollen lymph nodes: Lymph nodes in the underarm area may become swollen and tender.
7. Fever: Mastitis can cause a low-grade fever, typically less than 100.4°F (38°C).
8. Chills: Some people may experience chills or feel cold.
9. Breast tenderness: Mastitis can cause breast tenderness, which can be severe.
10. Breast engorgement: In severe cases, mastitis can cause breast engorgement, which is characterized by swelling and hardness of the breast.

In rare cases, mastitis can also cause more severe symptoms, such as:

1. Severe pain: Severe pain in the breast or arm
2. Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting can occur due to infection or fever
3. Fever over 101°F (38.3°C): A high fever above 101°F (38.3°C) may indicate a more severe infection
4. Swollen arm: Swelling in the arm or armpit
5. Abscess formation: In rare cases, mastitis can lead to abscess formation, which is a pocket of pus that forms in the breast tissue.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly to receive proper treatment and prevent complications.

What are the causes of mastitis?

Mastitis is a painful and uncomfortable condition that occurs when the breast tissue becomes inflamed or infected. The causes of mastitis can be divided into several categories:

1. Bacterial infection: Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Escherichia coli can cause mastitis. Bacterial mastitis is more common in women who are breastfeeding.
2. Viral infection: Viruses such as the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can also cause mastitis.
3. Fungal infection: Fungi such as Candida albicans can cause mastitis, particularly in people who are taking antibiotics or have weakened immune systems.
4. Prolonged lactation: Mastitis is more common in women who are breastfeeding for an extended period, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth and infection.
5. Blockage of milk ducts: A blockage of the milk ducts can cause milk to become trapped, leading to inflammation and infection.
6. Poor latching: Poor latching or nipple confusion during breastfeeding can cause nipple trauma, leading to mastitis.
7. Infrequent emptying: Failing to empty the breast regularly during breastfeeding can lead to bacterial growth and infection.
8. Previous breast surgery: Women who have had breast surgery, such as a lumpectomy or mastectomy, may be at higher risk of developing mastitis.
9. Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can cause changes in the breast tissue, making it more susceptible to infection.
10. Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with chronic illnesses or taking immunosuppressive medications, may be more prone to developing mastitis.

It’s essential to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of mastitis, as it can lead to complications if left untreated.

How is the diagnosis of mastitis made?

The diagnosis of mastitis is typically made based on a combination of the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Here are the steps involved in making a diagnosis of mastitis:

1. Medical history: The healthcare provider will ask the patient about their medical history, including any previous breast problems, surgeries, or illnesses.
2. Physical examination: The healthcare provider will perform a physical examination of the breast, looking for signs of inflammation, such as redness, swelling, and warmth.
3. Breast exam: The healthcare provider will perform a breast exam to check for lumps, tenderness, and nipple discharge.
4. Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as mammography, ultrasound, or MRI may be ordered to rule out other conditions that may be causing the symptoms.
5. Laboratory tests: Laboratory tests may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and identify the underlying cause of the mastitis. These tests may include:
   • Blood cultures: To identify bacterial infections
   • Breast milk culture: To identify bacterial or fungal infections
   • Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for signs of infection or inflammation
   • Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): To measure inflammation
   • C-reactive protein (CRP): To measure inflammation
6. Nipple discharge analysis: The healthcare provider may collect a sample of nipple discharge to examine it under a microscope for signs of infection or inflammation.
7. Mammography: A mammogram may be ordered to rule out other breast conditions that may be causing symptoms.

The healthcare provider may also perform other tests to rule out other conditions that may be causing the symptoms, such as:

• Breast cancer
• Breast abscess
• Fibroadenoma
• Mastalgia

Based on the results of these tests and examinations, the healthcare provider will make a diagnosis of mastitis and recommend appropriate treatment.

What is the treatment for mastitis?

The treatment for mastitis typically involves a combination of antibiotics, pain relief medications, and other therapies to manage symptoms and promote healing. Here are some common treatments for mastitis:

1. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat bacterial mastitis. The type and duration of antibiotic therapy will depend on the severity of the infection and the patient’s medical history.
2. Pain relief medications: Pain relief medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage breast pain and discomfort.
3. Warm compresses: Applying a warm compress to the affected breast can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
4. Breastfeeding support: If the mastitis is caused by breastfeeding, breastfeeding support and assistance may be necessary to help improve latch and nipple care.
5. Rest: Resting and avoiding strenuous activities can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
6. Nipple care: Proper nipple care is essential to prevent nipple trauma and promote healing. This includes gentle washing with soap and water, applying a warm compress, and avoiding rubbing or pulling on the nipples.
7. Topical creams: Topical creams or ointments may be prescribed to help soothe and protect the affected breast tissue.
8. Antifungal or antiviral medications: If the mastitis is caused by a fungal or viral infection, antifungal or antiviral medications may be prescribed.
9. Surgical intervention: In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to drain an abscess or remove damaged breast tissue.

It’s essential to follow the recommended treatment plan and complete the full course of antibiotics to ensure that the infection is fully cleared. Failure to do so can lead to complications, such as:

• Prolonged illness
• Recurrence of the infection
• Abscess formation
• Breast damage

It’s also important to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or if new symptoms develop during treatment.