Breast infections are commonly associated with lactating mastitis, but there are other types that can occur in both breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding women. Symptoms include redness, inflammation, breast discomfort, and fever. Treatment may involve antibiotics and consulting a lactation consultant. Any lump or swelling in the breast should be considered a potential indicator of breast cancer. Men can also develop mastitis and breast abscesses.
Most of the time when people discuss breast infection, they are referring to lactating mastitis. Mastitis is a condition that develops in breastfeeding women, often during the first few weeks or months of breastfeeding. There are a couple of other types of breast infections that are worth mentioning and they don’t generally occur in breastfeeding women.
Since lactating mastitis is quite common, it deserves some discussion. This condition can occur a few weeks after a baby is born and usually results from bacteria entering the breast through nipples that have cracks or small openings, which causes the breast tissue to become inflamed. Often, this breast infection occurs when babies have poor latching techniques and usually occurs in only one breast. Symptoms include redness around the area of infection, inflammation, breast discomfort, a feeling of warmth or warmth in the breasts, and sometimes fever. Treatment may encourage continued breastfeeding and antibiotics. Consulting a lactation consultant may also be suggested to correct latch issues so the infection doesn’t recur.
It is possible to get a breast infection when breastfeeding is not involved. Some women can develop what is called periductal mastitis, which involves the area directly under the nipple. This can cause the breasts to become red and tender, and women sometimes experience swollen lymph nodes under the arm. Both breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding women can also have an abscess due to an unresolved form of mastitis. They may need to be treated by draining the abscess.
It should be noted, however, that any time a lump or swelling is present in the breast, especially in women who are not breastfeeding, it should be considered a potential indicator of breast cancer. Doctors may want to do mammograms or other tests to rule this out. It makes sense to take this precaution given the importance of early cancer treatment.
A breast infection does not have to occur inside the breast. There are some common skin infections, which can also be extremely annoying. In particular, women with larger breasts may be prone to fungal infections in the lower part of the breast, right where it protrudes from the chest. Bacterial infections can also occur in this area. If the area smells funny, is red, has broken skin, or has any signs of pus, women should see their doctor. Usually the treatment for this type of infection is to use a topical antifungal or antibiotic cream. Such conditions typically resolve within a few weeks.
While this article has focused on breast infection in women, it should be noted that men may develop mastitis and sometimes breast abscesses. These are rare conditions in the male population, but they can occur. Men with sudden pain, redness, swelling, or inflammation of the breast or nipple should seek immediate medical attention.
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