Take care of your health! Here we tell you what it is mastitislas causes that originate it and some Recommendations to prevent it.
What is mastitis?
According to Medline Plus, mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue, usually caused by a bacterial infection. It generally affects lactating women, after the milk ducts become blocked and the milk cannot flow out; although it is worth noting that it can also occur in non-lactating women and even in men.
You might be interested in: Natalia Lafourcade, first voice and ambassador of Music for Peace
Symptoms of mastitis
Bacteria can enter through the opening of the duct or a crack in the skin of the nipple, and multiply in the milk.
- Symptoms of mastitis include:
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area
- Redness and heat in the area
- Swelling and hardening of breast tissue
- High fever (over 38°c)
- Shivers
- Vomiting and nausea.
- Discharge of pus or blood from the nipple
If you are a mother, these symptoms can make you feel like you no longer have milk, which can make feeding your baby difficult, since mastitis can cause the mother to wean her baby earlier than desired.
Causes that cause mastitis
Milk that remains blocked in the breast is the main cause of mastitis. Other causes include the following:
- Bacterial infection (Staphylococcus aureus)
- Nipple injuries
- Wearing tight bras
- Hormonal changes
- Irregular or insufficient breastfeeding
- Improper breastfeeding technique/Use of unsterilized breast pumps
- Excessive fatigue or stress.
- Poor nutrition
- Smoking
You might be interested in: Fernando Ponce de León, flutist of the band ‘Mägo de Oz’, dies
Treatment of mastitis
It is important to consult a health professional if symptoms of mastitis occur in order to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment, since if you are breastfeeding, some medications can be counterproductive for the baby; however, below we give you some tips to reduce the symptoms of this condition.
- Antibiotic if it is caused by a bacterial infection/Analgesics for pain/Anti-inflammatory drugs —as prescribed by the doctor—
- Rest, drink plenty of fluids and eat healthy foods.
- If possible, ask for help with housework and baby care so you can rest.
- Do not massage or compress the breast, as this may cause further swelling in the affected area.
- Use cold compresses on your breasts between feedings or pumping sessions for added comfort.
- Avoid immersing the nipple and do not apply topical products to the breast.
- The milk of a mother with mastitis is safe for the baby to eat, so he or she can feed directly from the breast or drink the milk that was expressed when he or she has mastitis.
CSAS
Related
2024-09-24 10:20:33