Plugged Ducts, Breast Infection, Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding Challenge: Plugged Ducts versus Breast Infection (Mastitis)
It is common for many women to have a plugged duct in the breast during the period she breastfeeds. A plugged milk duct feels tender, sore, or like a lump in the breast. It is not accompanied by a fever or other symptoms. It happens when a milk duct does not properly drain, becomes inflamed, pressure builds up behind the plug, and surrounding tissue becomes inflamed. A plugged duct usually only occurs in one breast.
A breast infection (mastitis), on the other hand, is soreness or a lump in the breast that is accompanied by a fever and/or flu-like symptoms, such as feeling run down or very achy. Some women with a breast infection also have nausea and vomiting. You also may have yellowish discharge from the nipple that looks like colostrum, or the breasts feel warm or hot to the touch. A breast infection can occur when other family members have a cold or the flu, and like a plugged duct, it usually only occurs in one breast.

Solution:
Treatment for plugged ducts and breast infections is similar.
Soreness can be relieved by applying heat to increase circulation to the sore area and to speed its healing. You can use a heating pad or a small hot-water bottle. It also helps to massage the area, starting behind the sore spot. Use your fingers in a circular motion and massage toward the nipple.
Breastfeed often on the affected side. This helps loosen the plug, keeps the milk moving freely, and the breast from becoming overly full. Nursing every two hours, both day and night on the affected side first can be helpful.
Rest. Getting extra sleep or relaxing with your feet up can help speed healing. Often a plugged duct or breast infection is the first sign that a mother is doing too much and becoming overly tired.
Wear a well-fitting supportive bra that is not too tight, since this can constrict milk ducts.
IMPORTANT: If you do not feel better within 24 hours of trying these steps, and you still have a fever or your symptoms worsen, call your health care provider. You may need an antibiotic. Also, if you have a breast infection in which both breasts look affected, or there is pus or blood in the milk, red streaks near the area, or your symptoms came on severe and suddenly, see your health care provider right away.
Even if you need an antibiotic, continuing to breastfeed during treatment is best for both you and your baby. Most antibiotics will not affect your baby through your breast milk.
Content Courtesy : www.4woman.gov
^{Note : Information herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider before beginning any course of supplementation or treatment.}

Breastfeed   Benefits of Breastfeeding   Babies with Reflux and Breastfeeding
Sore Nipples and Breastfeeding   Jaundice and Breastfeeding