Breast abscess is a painful collection of pus developed in the breast due to bacterial infection. Infection can cause during breast-feeding if bacteria enter the breast tissue or when milk ducts become blocked. Breast abscess may affect women in age 18-50 years. Risk factors in breastfeeding women are: skipping breastfeeding sessions, pressure on milk ducts from a tight bra, stress & exhaustion in new mothers, weaning baby from breastfeeding too quickly, and improper feeding schedule.
The risk factors in women who are not breastfeeding are: being overweight, inflammatory breast cancer, smoking or other tobacco product use, history of previous breast abscess and being child-bearing age. Antibiotics are used in the breast abscess and potential complications may need surgical treatment.
Some of the symptoms of breast abscess:
- Breast engorgement
- Breast pain
- Itching
- Nipple tenderness
- Nipple discharge
- Swelling, warmth and redness of breast tissue
- Tender or enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit on the affected side
When should you consult a doctor?
Consult a doctor if you have signs of breast abscess. Immediate treatment and medication will be needed to avoid complications.
Read more »
