Health

Mastitis and Clogged Ducts: What’s the Difference?

Breastfeeding can be challenging at times. Your baby might not seem interested one day, or you might feel like your milk supply is not keeping up with demand. In these moments, it makes sense to learn as much as possible about potential issues that might arise. When it comes to problems with breastfeeding, many new moms worry about mastitis and clogged ducts. 

Both have similarities and differences in risk factors, symptoms, and more. Both of these conditions are common among breastfeeding women; however, they are also harmless and treatable. In this article, we’ll go over what they are, the differences between them, and how to deal with them if they happen to you or a friend who is currently breastfeeding.

What is Mastitis?

Mastitis is a breast infection, usually caused by bacteria. It can also sometimes be caused by a virus or fungus. The infection can happen in both breasts, but usually, only one breast is infected at a time. Mastitis usually happens when your baby is about 2-4 weeks old and your milk supply is increasing. During this time, your body is making more milk and your breasts are full of milk. This makes them more prone to getting an infection net worth

Mastitis can happen if bacteria get into your milk ducts. This can happen if you don’t change your breast pads often enough. Or if you have cracked nipples that allow bacteria to get under the skin and into your milk ducts. Mastitis often causes a fever, pain, redness, and swelling in one or both of your breasts. It can also cause chills, nausea, and a general feeling of being unwell. Mastitis is usually treated with antibiotics masstamilan.

What is a Clogged Milk Duct?

A clogged milk duct is when the milk duct becomes clogged, usually with a plug of breast milk. This can cause tenderness, swelling, and pain in the area of the plugged duct. The plugged duct usually happens near the surface of your breast and is typically not infected. Clogged ducts are very common among breastfeeding women. They are also very easy to treat, and not usually serious. It is normal to have a plugged duct every once in a while. However, if the condition repeats, you may need to do some things differently to avoid future problems. 

Clogged ducts are caused by a build-up of pressure behind the plugged duct. This happens when your baby doesn’t drain the entire breast at each feeding. This can happen for many reasons. Your baby’s sucking pattern may be inefficient. You may have an oversupply of breast milk, and your baby isn’t taking enough at each feeding. You may also be holding your baby incorrectly.

Differences Between Mastitis and Clogged Ducts

Mastitis vs clogged duct – both breast infections that are treated with antibiotics. Mastitis is usually caused by a virus or bacteria, while a clogged duct is usually caused by a build-up of breast milk in the duct. Mastitis usually affects both breasts, while a clogged duct usually affects only one. Mastitis can be painful and severe, while a clogged duct is usually only mildly painful and lasts only a few days. Mastitis is a result of a bacterial infection, while a clogged duct is usually caused by a build-up of breast milk expotab.

How to Treat a Clogged Duct or Mastitis

  • Stay hydrated – Drinking lots of water is the best way to prevent a blocked duct or mastitis. Drinking lots of water and breastfeeding often will also help reduce your risk of a plugged duct or mastitis.
  • Eat a healthy diet – Avoiding sugary foods and caffeine will also help reduce your risk of a blocked duct or mastitis.
  • Breastfeed often – Make sure to feed your baby frequently, especially in the first several weeks after birth. Your baby should be feeding every few hours during the day and every few hours at night. At first, your baby may be taking smaller and more frequent feedings. As your baby grows, his feeding will last longer.
  • Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes – Tight-fitting clothes, such as bras, can increase pressure on your breasts and cause discomfort.
  • Avoid allergens – Try to avoid allergens, such as dust and pet dander, that may make you more likely to develop an infection.

Summary

Mastitis is usually painful and severe, while a clogged duct is usually mildly painful and lasts only a few days. If you have a clogged duct or mastitis, make sure to drink plenty of water, eat healthy foods, and feed your baby often. You can also try to avoid allergens and wear loose-fitting clothes to reduce your risk of developing an infection. With a few simple changes, you can help to keep your breasts healthy and your breastfeeding journey positive.

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