How should acute mastitis be treated?

Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

Updated on September 26, 2024

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Firstly, it is essential to prevent the accumulation of milk and avoid damage to the nipples while keeping them clean. After each breastfeeding, wash the nipples with soap. If the nipples are inverted, frequently squeeze and pull them to correct this. It is important to establish a regular breastfeeding schedule to prevent the baby from sleeping without releasing the nipple. Each breastfeeding session should drain the milk completely; if there is any accumulation, massage or use a breast pump to extract all the milk. After breastfeeding, clean the nipples. If there is any damage or cracking on the nipples, timely treatment is necessary. For the care of the baby's oral cavity, local heat application and massage can be provided.

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Written by Li Li Jie

Obstetrics and Gynecology

1min

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What should I do if I have acute mastitis?

If acute mastitis occurs, the first step is to promptly relieve the blockage of the milk ducts, ensuring smooth drainage of breast milk. This can be achieved through warm compresses, massage, and the use of a breast pump for most cases of acute mastitis. With early intervention, significant relief can usually be achieved. However, if the condition has been prolonged and is severe, it is advisable to visit a formal hospital. Prompt medical attention and diagnostic tests, such as a complete blood count and localized ultrasound, are needed to further understand the condition and administer appropriate antibiotic treatment. If an abscess forms in the breast, it should be surgically drained as soon as possible. Maintaining good hygiene, paying attention to a gentle diet, and adopting good living habits, such as going to bed early and waking up early, are also important.

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Written by Cui Yu Rong

Breast Surgery

39sec

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Is hot compress effective for acute mastitis?

An important factor in acute mastitis is the accumulation of milk during breastfeeding, which leads to mastitis. Applying heat can be somewhat effective, as it helps to unblock the milk, thus further alleviating and controlling the symptoms of mastitis. However, heat application is mainly used in the initial stage of mastitis. If the condition progresses further, with more apparent systemic symptoms or pus formation, then heat application is not very effective. Further anti-infection treatment and, if necessary, incision and drainage surgery are needed to control the condition.

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Written by Shen Li Wen

Obstetrics and Gynecology

1min 16sec

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How is acute mastitis examined?

When suspecting acute mastitis in women, a routine physical examination should first be conducted, including measuring body temperature to check for any elevation, examining if the breast shape is symmetrical on both sides, and observing any congestion or swelling of the local skin, as well as feeling for any fluctuating sensation upon touch. This fluctuating sensation actually indicates an intensified manifestation of mastitis, resulting in a dense breast. Additionally, check whether the lymph nodes under both armpits are swollen, perform a blood draw to analyze a complete blood count, and understand the blood picture and whether there is an increase in neutrophil classification. If there is a consideration of abscess in the breast, a color ultrasound examination of both breasts should also be conducted. Under ultrasound guidance, aspiration of secretions for culture can be performed, which is informative for understanding the pathogen and guiding future medication use.

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Written by Cui Yu Rong

Breast Surgery

59sec

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Acute mastitis lactation method

One very important cause of acute mastitis is the stagnation of milk, so it is essential to maintain the flow of breast milk after the onset of mastitis. Therefore, it is generally recommended to continue breastfeeding. Before and after breastfeeding, wash the nipples and the baby's mouth to keep the nipple and areola area clean. During breastfeeding, try to empty the breast as much as possible, and after breastfeeding, you can apply heat, massage, and express any remaining milk by pressing from the surrounding area towards the nipple. You can also use a breast pump to extract the remaining milk, which can help prevent infection. However, some cases of mastitis may not be relieved by these methods and may still require further treatment at a regular hospital.

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Written by Zhang Chao Jie

Breast Surgery

36sec

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Does acute mastitis require weaning?

In most cases of acute mastitis, it is not necessary to wean. However, weaning is mandatory when acute mastitis is accompanied by high fever, abscess, or nipple ulceration. Other than these conditions, it is often sufficient to temporarily stop breastfeeding from the inflamed breast for a few days. After treatment, breastfeeding can usually continue. During this temporary cessation, the milk from the affected breast should be expressed and discarded. Breastfeeding can continue with the other breast. Therefore, weaning is not easily recommended for acute mastitis.