A breast abscess is a painful build-up of pus in the breast caused by an infection. Here are some key points to know about breast abscess:
Symptoms:
– Fever, chills, and malaise
– Pain, erythema, and firmness over an area of the breast
– A mass may not always be palpable, especially if it is located deep within a large breast
– Nipple discharge
– Breast tenderness
Diagnosis:
– Diagnosis is made via signs and symptoms, physical examination, and ultrasound.
– In some cases, to confirm the presence of a breast abscess, needle aspiration is done and the fluid analyzed.
Causes:
– Breast abscesses are most often caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcal species.
– Many breast abscesses have community-acquired MRSA, with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus being the most common pathogenic organism in modern breast abscesses.
Treatment:
– Treatment options depend on the size and severity of the abscess and may include antibiotics, incision and drainage, or surgery.
– Consult at Breast Clinic at Primera Hospital, Kathmandu for the best treatment of Breast Abscess
– Lactation nurse may be involved to educate the patient on nipple hygiene, hand washing, and preventing engorgement of the breast.
Risk factors:
– Risk factors for lactational breast abscess formation include the first pregnancy at maternal age over 30 years, pregnancy more than 41 weeks of gestation, mastitis, primiparity, mother employed outside the home and being married, having breastfeeding difficulties in hospital, and having cracked nipples.
It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a breast abscess. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Tips for Maintaining Breast Health and Minimizing the Risk of Breast Abscesses
Preventing breast abscess formation primarily involves good breast hygiene and managing conditions that may increase the risk of infection. Here are some steps to help reduce the risk of breast abscesses:
1. Proper Breast Hygiene:
– Clean your breast and nipple area regularly with mild soap and warm water, paying attention to the creases and folds of the skin.
2. Maintain Clean Nursing Equipment:
– If you’re breastfeeding, ensure that breast pumps, breast shields, and bottles are cleaned thoroughly and sanitized before use.
3. Manage Breast Infections:
– If you have mastitis (inflammation of the breast), it’s crucial to treat it promptly with antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not stop antibiotic treatment prematurely.
4. Adequate Breastfeeding Technique:
– Ensure proper latching and breastfeeding technique to reduce the risk of cracked or damaged nipples, which can be entry points for bacteria.
5. Empty the Breasts:
– If you’re breastfeeding, make sure your breasts are adequately emptied during each feeding to prevent milk stasis, which can lead to infection.
6. Manage Nipple Cracks:
– If you have cracked or sore nipples, seek advice from a Breast Surgeon to address the issue promptly and prevent infection.
7. Wear Breathable Clothing:
– Choose bras and clothing made from breathable materials, and avoid tight-fitting bras that can trap moisture.
8. Maintain Overall Health:
– A strong immune system can help your body fight off infections. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.
9. Seek Medical Advice:
– If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or pain in your breast, consult your healthcare provider promptly. Early treatment can prevent the progression of an infection to an abscess.
10. Address Underlying Conditions:
– If you have conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders that can weaken your immune system, work with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively.
Remember that while taking these preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of breast abscesses, it’s not always possible to prevent them entirely. If you do develop a breast abscess, seek prompt medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment at Primera Hospital, which may include drainage of the abscess and antibiotics.