What should I do if I have acute mastitis?

Written by Li Li Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on October 22, 2024
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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 Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
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How should acute mastitis be treated?

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 Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
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What is acute mastitis?

Acute mastitis is an acute purulent infection of the mammary gland, commonly occurring in women during the postpartum breastfeeding period, especially more frequently seen in primiparous women. It usually occurs within three months after delivery, particularly in the third and fourth weeks postpartum. Therefore, it can also be referred to as postpartum mastitis or lactational mastitis. The main causes are due to bacterial invasion, stagnation of milk, and a decrease in the body's immune function. The primary pathogens are generally Staphylococcus aureus, with occasional cases involving Streptococcus. In such instances, it is recommended to conduct a routine blood test for the mammary gland and an ultrasound to determine the severity of the mastitis.

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Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
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What should I do if acute mastitis bursts?

An acute breast abscess has ruptured, and it should be treated in a formal hospital setting. Under general anesthesia through intravenous administration, the abscess area should be expanded to the normal tissue via an incision. Then, using color ultrasound for abscess localization, to avoid damaging the milk ducts and prevent fistula formation, the incision should follow the direction of the milk ducts, extending radially towards the areola. If there are multiple abscess cavities, the partitions between the cavities should be opened with a finger. If necessary, multiple incisions should be made, or successive operations for drainage of the abscess cavities might be required. Latex sheets or drainage tubes may be used.

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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.