MASTITIS

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue found in lactating women. It may vary in degree from a mild plugged milk duct to a severe infection or even abscess. The key to treatment is early recognition and treatment of the problem.

Signs and Symptoms:

Elevated temperature, fever (mild is 99 degrees; of concern is anything above 101)

Increased pulse rate

Chills, malaise, achiness, headache, nausea and vomiting

Painful, tender, reddened areas with hard lumps

A tender lumpy area (without other symptoms) is usually the first sign of a problem. This is a "plugged duct" and is the result of milk (a prime environment for bacterial growth) sitting in one place too long. It happens when the breast is very full and does not get drained completely. This could be because the fit of a bra is too tight in one spot (often while nursing) or the nipples are sore, so you avoid one side too long. Other causes include cracking of the nipples or moisture from plastic nursing pads. The first sign of a problem could also be waking up one morning with "the flu". Many breast infections start this way so it's probably best to assume that's what it is and seek treatment.

Prevention:

Early recognition and treatment of a blocked duct, yeast   infection (thrush in baby), cracked nipples, etc. Proper fitting bra and frequent changing of breast pads (preferably cotton). Adequate sleep and nutrition to support proper functioning of the immune system. Regular and frequent nursing on both sides with proper positioning of infant. Ask if unsure! Relaxed position and good support while nursing help assist good milk letdown (which can help "wash out" an infection before it starts).

Treatment:

Mastitis is extremely serious and can progress rapidly (because bacteria grow so well in that milk!). We treat aggressively from the onset. At the first suspicion of mastitis, go to bed (though I may not require it for a plugged duct) and call me!. Attention to the prevention measures above can speed up the healing, too. Increase fluid intake, nurse frequently (and in several different positions to ensure complete drainage of the affected area), and take your temperature every four hours. Avoid sugar, except as fresh, whole fruit. The following suggestions are my basic approach and I may add other things as necessary:

Nutrition:
     Botanicals:
          Vitamin C - as much as 500 mg hourly
          Echinacea - 1 dropper every 2 hours.

          Vitamin A - up to10,000 iu daily of these things together in one tablet. Take 2  tabs 4x daily.

          Zinc - 30 to 50 mg daily

          Pokeroot - 5 drops 4x daily or as a cream applied topically.

          Make a potato poultice and apply that to the infected area as it will help draw out the infection. Grated potato works well (but may be too messy); sliced is adequate usually. Cover the potato over well or it will  stain. Ginger tea applied warm with a cloth can increase circulation and healing also. Some use cabbage leaves, too.

          Last resort, though we may start with it if the infection "got away from you"  quickly, is antibiotics.