How to Diagnose Mastitis

If you are a lactating female with fever and flu-like symptoms, you may have mastitis. Mastitis is an infection or inflammation of the breast tissue in lactating women. Here's how to recognize the infection.

Instructions

1

Check for pain or tenderness in the breast. You may be able to feel a lump; this could indicate a clogged duct, which may be infected. Tender areas may also appear red.

2

Take your temperature to verify a fever. Mastitis can present itself flu-like symptoms including fever, nausea and chills. A temperature over 101 degrees F indicates you may have an infection.

3

Make sure your symptoms are worsening. Symptoms of mastitis without an infection will worsen over time. Symptoms of engorgement, clogged ducts or mastitis without an infection will gradually improve.

4

Think back to recent events that could cause mastitis. Skipped feedings, prolonged breaks between feedings, cracked or bleeding nipples or even stress can cause clogged ducts and, eventually, mastitis.

5

Call your doctor. If your symptoms worsen, and you think they indicate mastitis, have a doctor examine you. There are many prescription medications that can provide relief.