What is good to eat for acute mastitis?

Written by Cui Yu Rong
Breast Surgery
Updated on July 04, 2025
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Acute mastitis is generally caused by the accumulation of milk or bacterial infection. Diet does not have a significant impact on acute mastitis, so a normal diet is usually sufficient for those suffering from it, but it should be light. In the early stages of inflammation in acute mastitis, breastfeeding can continue, mainly to maintain the flow of milk, which can help alleviate the condition. However, if there is a significant systemic reaction, antibiotics can be used for treatment, typically starting with penicillin. However, if an abscess has formed, further surgical incision and drainage may be necessary. (Note: This answer is for reference only. Medications should be administered under the guidance of a professional doctor, and self-medication should be avoided.)

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Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
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Does acute mastitis require daily milk expression?

If acute mastitis is severe, breastfeeding is not advisable, and it is necessary to express milk daily. Prevention of acute mastitis is more important than treatment, especially during breastfeeding periods where it is crucial to keep the nipples clean. Frequently wash them with warm soapy water and clean the nipples before and after breastfeeding with 3% boric acid solution. For those with inverted nipples, gently extract the nipple before cleaning; however, do not use ethanol wipes as ethanol can make the nipple and areola skin brittle, which can lead to cracking. Develop good breastfeeding habits, nurse regularly, and ensure that the milk is thoroughly drawn out each time. If unable to completely draw out the milk, use hand massage to express it or a breast pump. Additionally, do not let the baby sleep with the nipple in their mouth. If there is nipple damage or cracking, stop breastfeeding and use a breast pump to express the milk until the wound heals, and then resume breastfeeding.

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Written by Cui Yu Rong
Breast Surgery
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What is good to eat for acute mastitis?

Acute mastitis is generally caused by the accumulation of milk or bacterial infection. Diet does not have a significant impact on acute mastitis, so a normal diet is usually sufficient for those suffering from it, but it should be light. In the early stages of inflammation in acute mastitis, breastfeeding can continue, mainly to maintain the flow of milk, which can help alleviate the condition. However, if there is a significant systemic reaction, antibiotics can be used for treatment, typically starting with penicillin. However, if an abscess has formed, further surgical incision and drainage may be necessary. (Note: This answer is for reference only. Medications should be administered under the guidance of a professional doctor, and self-medication should be avoided.)

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Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
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Early treatment of acute mastitis

In the early stages of mastitis where there is pain but no redness and swelling, applying heat and then having a lactation masseur clear any residual milk can be effective. However, if symptoms like high fever and chills occur, along with localized redness and swelling, it is advised to go to the hospital to have a complete blood count and an ultrasound. If the leukocyte count is under 10,000 and there is localized swelling, topical application of Rifanuo and oral anti-inflammatory medication can be curative, but it is necessary to stop breastfeeding. If the leukocyte count exceeds 10,000, intravenous antibiotics may be required, alongside cessation of breastfeeding. Then, using a breast pump to extract the milk can help in healing. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
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What should I do about acute mastitis during lactation?

Firstly, let's assess the condition of acute mastitis by conducting a routine blood test and color ultrasound for further examination and diagnosis. If the white blood cell count exceeds 10,000, breastfeeding should be discontinued, and local anti-inflammatory symptomatic treatment should be applied. If the white blood cell count is below 10,000 but there is localized redness and swelling, external application of rifanuo and oral anti-inflammatory medications can be used. Breast massage by a professional or a family member can help clear the milk ducts. If there is a severe lump, it is recommended to stop breastfeeding and focus on anti-inflammatory symptomatic treatment. Observe whether the inflammatory lump can shrink; if it does, continue with local anti-inflammatory symptomatic treatment. If the severe lump continues to grow, it's advised to stop breastfeeding and proceed with local surgical treatment.

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Written by Zhang Shu Kun
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Which part of the body is moxibustion applied to for acute mastitis?

In cases of acute mastitis, it is recommended to promptly visit a formal hospital and receive timely treatment under the guidance of a doctor. Under the doctor's guidance, treatment should be administered through medication. If mastitis is not treated promptly, it can easily lead to a worsening of the condition and the formation of breast abscesses, which not only prolongs the treatment period but in severe cases, may also require surgery. Moxibustion is a slow treatment method, so it is crucial to treat acute symptoms promptly with medication. However, moxibustion can be performed on acupoints such as Tanzhong and Rugen to achieve effective regulation.