Tuesday, 10 December 2013

Breast Feeding - Mastitis - Causes and Treatments

Mastitis is the inflammation of breast tissue. It is caused by an infection with the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus which can enter the breast through the nipple. the incidence happens most to the breast feeding mother as a result of the nipples have become dry and tender or it can be caused by untreated plugged duct. The disease affects over approximately 10% of breastfeeding women in the world.
Causes of Matitis during breastfeeding
1. In an article "Mastitis (breastfeeding) - Causes" publicized at NHS choices, last reviewed: 10/06/2010, researcher indicated that milk stasis can lead to the milk ducts in the breasts becoming blocked, as the breast milk not being properly and regularly expressed. If the plugged duct if left untreated, it can lead to pressure building up resulting of inflammation to the surrounding tissue, causing breast inflammation or mastitis.

2. Other article "Breastfeeding Mastitis Causes and Symptoms" publicized on Breast feedingmastitis.com indicated that The infection is usually caused by bacteria from the skin or the baby’s mouth that enters the milk ducts through skin lesions of the nipple through the opening of the nipple. Once bacteria has entered the milk ducts the multiply, leading to the symptoms of the condition.

Treatments
1. Frequent breast feed of the infected breast
It can help to empty the milk in the breast and prevent it from in blocking the ducts.
2. Supplying enough fluids for both mother and baby is essential to reduce the risk of nipple crack, that can lead to invasion of the bacteria.
3. Massage and applied heat to the infected breast before feeding
It can help to release milk and reduce the risk of plugged duct.
4. Anti body will not be prescribed in the bacteria infection case or until it is absolutely necessary
5. If antibiotics are necessary in serve case, Dicloxacillin or cephalexin may be prescribed in a full course of up to 14 days, that helps to reduce the risk of recurrence or antibiotics resistance.
6. In rare cases, lactation inhibiting medication may be necessary.
7. Etc.


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