Mastitis is breast inflammation that can lead to infection. People who are breastfeeding are most likely to get mastitis. You may have a red, swollen, painful breast and flu-like symptoms.
Causes of Mastitis
Bacterial infection: Bacteria are normally found on the skin. Everyone has them, and they are normally harmless. If bacteria enter the breast tissue, due to a break in the skin near or around the nipple, they may cause mastitis.
Obstruction of a milk duct: Milk ducts carry milk from the breast glands to the nipple. When these ducts are blocked, milk builds up within the breast and causes inflammation and may result in infection.
Infection: An infection can develop when bacteria enter the breast tissue through a cracked or sore nipple. This triggers an immune response in the breast tissue and causes inflammation, redness, and discomfort.
Non-Lactational Mastitis: Causes of non-lactational mastitis are unclear but might include immune responses. An imbalance of the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone.
And finally, Mastitis is typically diagnosed based on a medical history and clinical exam. The healthcare provider may ask you about breastfeeding practices, nipple trauma, mastitis history, general overall health, and flu-like. Always contact your medical provider for proper treatment. All these information is gotten from Health.com publish on August 18th 2023
