Acute mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue, which can sometimes involve an infection. While it's most common in breastfeeding women (known as lactational mastitis), it can also occur in individuals who are not breastfeeding, including men.

Symptoms of Acute Mastitis

The symptoms can appear quickly and often affect only one breast. They commonly include:

• Breast pain, tenderness, or warmth: The affected area of the breast will feel sore and may be hot to the touch.
• Swelling: The breast tissue can become swollen and firm.
• Redness: There's often a wedge-shaped area of redness on the breast, though this may be harder to see on darker skin tones.
• Thickening of breast tissue or a breast lump: You might feel a hard lump or a generally thickened area in the breast.
• Pain or a burning feeling: This can be constant or worsen during breastfeeding.
• Flu-like symptoms: These are common, especially if there's an infection, and can include:
  • Fever (often 101°F / 38.3°C or higher)
  • Chills
  • Body aches
  • Feeling generally unwell

Causes of Acute Mastitis

The primary cause of mastitis, especially lactational mastitis, is often milk stasis (milk not being fully drained from the breast). This can create an environment where bacteria can grow. Other causes and risk factors include:

• Blocked milk ducts: If a breast isn't emptied completely during feedings, a milk duct can become clogged, leading to milk backup and inflammation.
• Bacteria entering the breast: Bacteria from the skin or a baby's mouth can enter the milk ducts through a crack in the nipple or a milk duct opening.
• Nipple damage: Sore or cracked nipples can provide an entry point for bacteria.
• Improper nursing technique: Issues with a baby's latch or infrequent feeding can lead to milk stasis.
• Pressure on the breast: Tight bras or seatbelts can restrict milk flow.
• Oversupply of milk (hyperlactation): Producing more milk than the baby can consume can lead to engorgement and narrowed milk ducts.
• Fatigue or stress: These can weaken the immune system.
• Smoking: A risk factor for non-lactational mastitis.
• Certain medical conditions: Diabetes or autoimmune diseases can increase risk.

Treatment for Acute Mastitis

Treatment typically involves a combination of measures to reduce inflammation and, if necessary, address an infection:

• Continued milk removal (for lactational mastitis): It's crucial to continue breastfeeding or pumping from the affected breast. This helps to clear the milk and reduce inflammation.
• Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is present, a course of antibiotics (usually 10-14 days) will be prescribed. It's important to complete the entire course.
• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce fever and inflammation.
• Cool compresses/ice packs: Applying cold packs to the breast after feeding can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Rest and fluids: Getting adequate rest and staying hydrated are important for recovery.
• Lactation consultant support: For breastfeeding individuals, a lactation consultant can help identify and correct breastfeeding issues like latch problems or improper milk drainage.
• Avoid restrictive clothing: Wear loose, supportive bras.
• Gentle breast stroking/lymphatic drainage: Light, gentle strokes from the nipple towards the armpit and collarbone may help reduce swelling.

Important Considerations

If symptoms don't improve within 24 hours of starting treatment or if they worsen, or if you develop a high fever, pus/blood draining from the breast, or red streaks extending from the breast, seek medical attention promptly.

Untreated mastitis can sometimes lead to a breast abscess (a collection of pus), which may require drainage.

In rare cases, symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer can mimic mastitis. If mastitis doesn't clear up after antibiotic treatment, further investigation (like a biopsy) may be necessary to rule out other conditions.

Beyond conventional treatments, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach that may complement your recovery. TCM principles focus on restoring balance within the body, often utilizing acupuncture, herbal remedies, and dietary adjustments to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support the body's natural healing processes. While not a substitute for medical care, discussing TCM options with a qualified practitioner could provide additional pathways to well-being.