WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR MASTTITIS (A BREAST INFECTION)?

* Be aware that the recommended treatments of illnesses are always being improved. This website was last update on 11/1/2024. The best treatment option MIGHT have changed since that time.

1. Cold compresses
2. Continue breast feeding if possible
3. Completely empty the breast via breast feeding or pumping
4. Tylenol as needed for pain (If there are no contraindications)
5. Ibuprofen (Motrin) or Advil as needed for pain (if there are no contraindications)
6. Dicloxacilline 250- 500 mg orally every 6 hours for 7 to 10 days
7. If allergic to penicillin, Cephalexin (Keflex) 500 mg orally 4 times a day or  Clindamycin 300 mg orally 3 times a day for 10 to 14 days
8. Erythromycin 250 mg orally every 6 hours is used less frequently.
9. IV antibiotics are given for Mastitis that does not improve with pill antibiotics.
A. Vancomycin 1 g IV every 12 hours
B. Cefotetan 1 to 2 g IV every 12 hours Breastfeeding should be continued during treatment because treatment includes emptying the affected breast.

CAUTION:

1. Although antibiotic pills can sometimes be used to treat mastitis, they might not always be effective. Sometimes, for severe cases of mastitis, intravenous antibiotics are needed.
2. All medication, including all antibiotics, have a risk of side effects.
3. Possible Severe side effects are a severe skin rash, an anaphylactic allergic reaction (leading to the inability to breathe and subsequent death if not treated rapidly), and Clostridioides difficile infection (C. Diff.) of the colon.
4. Medications such as creams, lotions, and gels should be tested in small dosages in areas of the body that are not easily seen.

Consult “Epocrates.com” for each Specific Medication’s possible “Adverse Reactions.” Side effects are also referred to as “Adverse Reactions.” Epocrates.com will tell you both “common reactions” and “serious reactions.” You will have to create an account, but it is simple, fast, and free.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A MASTITIS (BREAST INFECTION)?

The symptoms of a Breast Infection (or Mastitis) include high fever and breast changes: redness (erythema), induration, tenderness, pain, swelling, and warmth to the touch. Mastitis is different from the pain and cracking of nipples that frequently accompanies the start of breastfeeding.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF MASTITIS (A BREAST INFECTION)?

The usual cause of a Mastitis (A Breast Infection) is a bacteria called Staphylococcus Aureus.

HOW IS A MASTITIS (A BREAST INFECTION) DIAGNOSED?

A breast infection can be made by a careful history and a visual inspection.