How to Diagnose Mastitis

If you are a lactating female with fever and flu-like symptoms, you may have mastitis. Mastitis is an infection or inflammation of the breast tissue in lactating women. Here's how to recognize the infection.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check for pain or tenderness in the breast. You may be able to feel a lump; this could indicate a clogged duct, which may be infected. Tender areas may also appear red.

2. Take your temperature to verify a fever. Mastitis can present itself flu-like symptoms including fever, nausea and chills. A temperature over 101 degrees F indicates you may have an infection.

3. Make sure your symptoms are worsening. Symptoms of mastitis without an infection will worsen over time. Symptoms of engorgement, clogged ducts or mastitis without an infection will gradually improve.

4. Think back to recent events that could cause mastitis. Skipped feedings, prolonged breaks between feedings, cracked or bleeding nipples or even stress can cause clogged ducts and, eventually, mastitis.

5. Call your doctor. If your symptoms worsen, and you think they indicate mastitis, have a doctor examine you. There are many prescription medications that can provide relief.

Tips & Warnings

• Get a lot of rest. Resting will restore your immune system and relieve stress.
• Massage any lumps or tender areas. Massage can loosen plugged ducts and increase circulation, allowing your immune system to heal.
• Breastfeed regularly on the affected breast. If it becomes too painful to nurse, start with the pain-free breast to let down the milk. This should make nursing with the affected breast more comfortable.
• Empty the breast of all milk at each feeding; any fluid left behind may cause further infection.
• Taking antibiotics while nursing increases your risk for yeast related breast issues. Clean your breast with a baby wipe or moist cloth after you finish nursing to remove any saliva. It may harbor bacteria.
• Don't wait to get treatment for mastitis; prolonging treatment will only make the condition worse. If you have an infection, you will need antibiotics.

Resources

• Dr. Sears offers advice about breastfeeding and baby care.