Question 1

what exactly is mastitis of the breast?

Accepted Answer

MASTITIS: Inflammation of the breast with pain , redness and sometimes  discharge.

Question 2

can mastitis increase the risk of breast cancer?

Accepted Answer

No: Breast infections or mastitis are not related to breast cancer.

Question 3

how likely is it that i could have developed mastitis from partner sucking breast?

Accepted Answer

Possible: It is possible to get mastitis from your scenario.  Aspirin, advil (ibuprofen) , warm compresses and supportive bra will help. See your physician if it continues to get worse - more red, hard or with pus. Best wishes.

Question 4

breastfeeding my three day old. my breasts are very full and she does not fully empty them. is that okay or will i develop mastitis?

Accepted Answer

Breastfeeding: If you are breastfeeding and are still full after your infant is through feeding, pump your breasts and store the milk in the freezer for later use

Question 5

is it normal to go see a breast specialist due to mastitis?

Accepted Answer

Define specialist: If you mean seeing your obgyn or pcp, most can handle your average mastitis. If you mean a general surgeon or plastic surgeon, i'd say no. They could help, but i think they would wonder why you didn't see the other docs.

Question 6

how long does breast firmness associated with mastitis last?

Accepted Answer

4-6 weeks: Once the abscess is treated (drainage and antibiotics), there can be residual lumpiness that is inflammed tissue.  This can take at least 4-6 weeks to resolve and feel like "normal" lumpy breast tissue.

Question 7

i feel like i have mastitis but haven't breast fed in last 6 years. how is this possible?

Accepted Answer

Many other causes: There are many other potential causes for duct obstruction or co ditties which may mimic mastitis. If infection is present, antibiotics are likely indicated but further work up requires a detailed history, physical examination and imaging to determine the cause of your symptoms. Aspiration, incision and drainage, or excision may be indicated based on the findings.

Question 8

i have mastitis. is it normal for the milk coming out of the affected breast to be tossed?

Accepted Answer

No: There's no need to waste milk from the efftected breast.

Question 9

should i still empty my breasts if i have mastitis?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Pumping will actually help relieve some of your mastitis symptoms. Be sure to pump and dump on the breast that the mastitis is in. This also goes without saying, but if you haven't already, see your doctor and get on proper antibiotic treatment and follow up closely so developing a breast abscess will be less likely. Hope this helps!

Question 10

how do i know it is a breast abscess or mastitis?

Accepted Answer

Need  MD Evaluation: Common features of breast abscesses & mastitis include swelling and redness of the breast; however, an abscess is often associated with a new, tender, progressively-enlarging lump.  The distinction may be subtle, requiring surgical evaluation +/- ultrasound.

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Doctor answers about:

Mastitis of the breast

A member asked:

What exactly is mastitis of the breast?

A member asked:

Can mastitis increase the risk of breast cancer?

A member asked:

How likely is it that i could have developed mastitis from partner sucking breast?

A member asked:

Breastfeeding my three day old. my breasts are very full and she does not fully empty them. is that okay or will i develop mastitis?

A member asked:

Is it normal to go see a breast specialist due to mastitis?

A member asked:

How long does breast firmness associated with mastitis last?

A member asked:

I feel like i have mastitis but haven't breast fed in last 6 years. how is this possible?

A member asked:

I have mastitis. is it normal for the milk coming out of the affected breast to be tossed?

A member asked:

Should i still empty my breasts if i have mastitis?

A member asked:

How do i know it is a breast abscess or mastitis?

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