Mastitis (breast infection)

Face | Otorhinolaryngology | Mastitis (breast infection) (Disease)


Description

Mastitis is defined as an inflammation of the mammary gland or udder of the ewe. The response to injury to the udder of sheep is called inflammation. Although mastitis usually occurs in the first several weeks of breast-feeding, it can happen anytime during breast-feeding. Lactation mastitis tends to affect only one breast - not both breasts.

Causes and Risk factors

Mastitis is the reaction of milk - secreting tissue to injury produced by physical force, chemicals introduced into the gland or most commonly from bacteria and their toxins. With mastitis, signs and symptoms can appear suddenly and may include: breast tenderness or warmth to the touch, general malaise or feeling ill, swelling of the breast, pain or a burning sensation continuously or while breast-feeding, skin redness, often in a wedge-shaped pattern, fever of 101° F (38. 3° C) or greater.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Oral antibiotics are usually very effective in treating this condition. If the signs and symptoms don't improve after the first two days of taking antibiotics, it is important to see the doctor right away to make sure the condition isn't the result of a more serious problem. ...