mastitis
Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue, resulting in pain, tenderness, warmth and redness in the breast area. The patient may experience fever and chills Mastitis mainly occurs in lactating women (lactational mastitis). However, mastitis can also occur in women outside the lactation period
In most cases, lactational mastitis develops 6-12 weeks after the birth of a child, although the condition may develop later. The situation is very disturbing, which prevents the mother from taking care of the child
In some cases, the mother breastfeeds the baby early because of the pain, but continuing to breastfeed, even while taking antibiotics, is better for the baby.
Breastfeeding requires skill, so incorrect technique can cause milk to retain in the mammary gland, which is the most common cause of mastitis. Other causes:
- Strangulation of the milk duct When the mammary gland does not completely empty during feeding, one of the mammary ducts may become blocked. At this time, milk retention occurs, which leads to nipple infection
- Bacteria found in the mammary gland Bacteria can enter the milk ducts from the surface of the skin or the baby's mouth Bacteria can enter the mammary gland through the cracks around the nipple. Retained milk that cannot be released during breastfeeding is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Antibacterial drugs reduce the risk of infection in the child
In mastitis, symptoms develop quickly:
- Breast pain or warmth to the touch
- Feeling sick
- Mammary gland swelling
- Pain and burning sensation constantly or during breastfeeding
- Redness of the skin
- 38 3 or more heats
- Although mastitis develops in the first three weeks of lactation, it can occur at any stage Lactational mastitis occurs mainly in one mammary gland
When to consult a doctor In most cases, a patient will experience flu symptoms before noticing chest pain and redness. Consult a doctor immediately after noticing the symptoms
The doctor may ask to see you to confirm the diagnosis Oral antibiotics are effective in this condition If symptoms do not improve within 2 days of taking antibiotics, see your doctor to rule out a more serious illness
