Mastitis is an inflammation in the mammary gland that may or may not be accompanied by an infection. This condition most often affects women who are breastfeeding; however, there are cases in which it occurs without being related to this period. Next, Dr. Milagros Amorin, breast health specialist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, gives us more information.

Types of mastitis

According to the evolution time we have:

• Subacute mastitis: does not present generalized symptoms,
• Acute mastitis: results from the accumulation of milk followed by an infection. It is usually accompanied by swollen glands, pain, and redness of the breast
• Chronic mastitis – usually caused by poorly managed acute mastitis. A biopsy is necessary to rule out other diseases such as inflammatory breast cancer. Within this group is chronic granulomatous mastitis.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms that occur are:

• Presence of firm mass
• Pain and tenderness
• Redness
• Fever
• Muscle pain
• Abscesses in the breast and purulent discharge, among others

Treatment

Generally, in the case of nursing mothers, it is essential to effectively extract milk. The most effective extraction is done through the good suction of the infant, massaging the breast during feeding to improve flow. Also, it is advisable to place warm compresses before breastfeeding and cold after it.

On the other hand, medical treatment will depend on the type of mastitis that the patient presents, because according to this, antibiotics and anti-inflammatories will be prescribed to fight the infection. Likewise, in the case of chronic granulomatous mastitis, it is necessary to use corticosteroids and surgical-type abscess drains.

Tips to prevent mastitis

• Good breastfeeding technique
• Hand washing prior to breastfeeding
• Early treatment for breast engorgement and / or nipple pain
• Go to the doctor in a timely manner in the presence of the symptoms previously described

Dr. Milagros Amorin
Breast health specialist at Clinica Ricardo Palma