Mastitis
Inflammation of the breast tissue. It may be caused by a missed breastfeed, cracked nipples or if breasts are not emptied effectively due to poor attachment. There is usually an accompanying infection.
Painfully full breasts, hard lumps, a red patch on skin, and flu-like symptoms such as tiredness, headache, chills or a raised temperature.
Warning:
If not treated immediately, mastitis can become more serious and develop into an abscess!
See your doctor or Child Health Nurse as soon as signs appear. The usual treatment is bed-rest, plenty of fluids, warm compresses, long hot showers and massage of breasts, plus paracetamol for pain. Antibiotics may be needed.
Continue breastfeeding as usual. Empty breasts at each feed (you may need to express some milk).