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The breastfeeding journey is special and fulfilling but not always easy. Being aware of potential challenges, like mastitis, is important because catching it early can prevent discomfort and ensure a smoother breastfeeding experience.
For new moms or those just starting their breastfeeding journey, mastitis can feel daunting and overwhelming. To ease concerns, we're consulting certified lactation counsellor Alexis Cascone, MS, RD, LDN, CLC, for guidance on identifying signs and symptoms of mastitis.
Mastitis is inflammation of breast tissue, which usually happens during breastfeeding. Cascone explains that when the breast tissue becomes inflamed, it can lead to swelling, pain, flu-like symptoms, aching, warmth in the breast, and redness. If left untreated, mastitis can lead to an infection and fever. "Early detection is key in mastitis. If left untreated, it can turn into a breast abscess, which typically requires surgical treatment," says Cascone.
Women can develop two types of mastitis:
Lactational mastitis: This is the most common type, and it's mastitis resulting from a blocked milk duct in breastfeeding women.
Non-lactational mastitis: This type results from an infected nipple in non-breastfeeding women.
Below are the various levels of severity of mastitis:
Clinical mastitis: This is when your breast gets inflamed and leads to an infection. Cascone says you'll notice symptoms like breast tenderness, erythema, fever, fatigue, and body aches.
Subclinical mastitis: This type is asymptomatic, and you won't necessarily see or feel symptoms. Cascone explains that doctors can diagnose it by checking for high levels of sodium in breast milk or a sodium/potassium ratio.
Chronic mastitis: With this type, you have ongoing breast pain without signs of inflammation like warmth or redness.
If you think you might have mastitis, here are some symptoms you may notice:
Every woman is different; some may experience one or a combination of these symptoms. Cascone explains that flu-like symptoms usually appear first in clinical mastitis. If left untreated, the infection can become a painful lump or hardened area in the breast that becomes tender and swollen. Cascone adds that a lump can progress into an abscess in some women.
If you think you have mastitis or notice any symptoms, don't hesitate to contact your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan. They'll assess your symptoms and check for severe signs like a fever or abscess.
Fortunately, there are some simple at-home mastitis treatment options, including:
Dealing with mastitis, while manageable, can leave a mom feeling exhausted and frustrated. Cascone points out, "Sometimes having mastitis will lead a mom to wean her baby before she wishes to."
Mastitis can sometimes resolve independently, but it can also quickly progress. If you don't start feeling better within 24 hours, don't hesitate to contact your doctor for further guidance and support.
iStockBesides the importance of early detection, it's also good to know what factors can increase the risk of mastitis. Some of these factors include:
Your medical history and lifestyle choices could also increase your risk for mastitis, including:
Experts
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Dahlia Rimmon is a pediatric dietitian and freelance writer. When she’s not preparing yummy snacks for her kids, Dahlia delights in traveling and hiking with her family. She lives with her husband, children, and puppy in the Midwest.