DEFINITION
What Is A Breast Abscess?
A breast abscess is an inflammation (swollen, red) and accumulation of pus in the breast caused by bacteria. In rare cases, a breast abscess can be a sign of breast cancer.
How Common Are Breast Abscesses?
About 10 – 30% of cases of breast abscess occur in women after pregnancy and lactation. Breast abscess can also occur in women who are overweight, have large breasts, or women who do not maintain personal hygiene.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of A Breast Abscess?
Signs of a breast abscess depend on the location of the abscess, the stage of the disease, and other factors. In the early stages, you may feel pain in the breast glands. The outer skin may be normal if the inflammation is internal or may appear red, hot and swollen if it is located on the surface of the breast.
When an abscess forms, the symptoms will become more pronounced. At that time, symptoms can include a skin abscess that becomes hot, sore, and red swollen. In addition, symptoms of infection usually appear in the form of fever, chills, nausea and vomiting.
The most severe complications are osteonecrosis of the breast with symptoms of infection, severe poisoning: blood pressure, body depression, enlarged breasts, edema, skin abscess that looks pale yellow, or necrotic lymph nodes are swollen and painful.
There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.
When Should I See A Doctor?
You should contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Redness, swelling or pain in the chest
- The nipple is pulled in or fluid is coming out of the nipple
- You feel pain while breastfeeding
Go to the doctor immediately if you experience these signs. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics can treat you without surgery.
If you have the above signs or symptoms or any other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.
REASONS
What Causes A Breast Abscess?
The two types of bacteria that most commonly cause breast abscess are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus. In addition, other causes such as anaerobic bacteria, typhoid bacillus, and blockage of the ducts in the breast due to scars can also cause breast abscesses.
RISK FACTORS
What Increases My Risk For A Breast Abscess?
This risk occurs in breastfeeding mothers:
- Inappropriate breastfeeding
- Breastfeeding time is not long enough so that there is a buildup of milk
- Wearing a bra tightly
- Scratched/scratched nipples
- Clogged drain
Having no risk factors doesn't mean you won't have this disease. These factors are for reference only. Consult your doctor for more detailed information.
TREATMENT
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.
What Are My Treatment Options For A Breast Abscess?
If a breast abscess is detected early, it can be cured with antibiotics without surgery. If detected at an advanced stage, the patient will be made a piercing incision to remove the abscess out. However, this approach can lead to complications such as new abscess formation and fistulas from skin abscesses.
If a breast abscess is detected early, it can be cured with antibiotics without surgery. If detected at an advanced stage, the patient will be made a piercing incision to remove the abscess out. However, this approach can lead to complications such as new abscess formation and fistulas from skin abscesses.
What Are The Usual Tests For A Breast Abscess?
The doctor will diagnose this disease by performing a physical examination or a biopsy of a sample of breast tissue for examination. If you have been diagnosed and given antibiotics before, but the situation does not improve, the doctor will perform an ultrasound to determine the exact status of your disease.
HOME REMEDIES
What Are Some Lifestyle Changes Or Home Remedies That Can Be Done To Treat A Breast Abscess?
Here are lifestyle and home remedies that can help you deal with a breast abscess:
- Healthy lifestyle: You should rest, drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food during therapy
- Always keep clean: you can use a warm, damp towel on the infected tissue
- If you are a nursing mother, always clean your breasts, especially the nipple area. Ideally, you stop breastfeeding until your breast disease is cured
If you have any questions, consult a doctor for the best solution for your problem.