Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Mastitis

Mastitis is acommon breast infection among lactating women.

Description

Mastitis is acommon breast infection among lactating women. It is caused when bacteria enters a breast through a cracked or abraded nipple. The bacteria causes a localized infection and an abscess of pus develops.

Signs and Symptoms

Red, tender, painful lump or swollen area in the breast

Swelling of the nearby gland in the armpit

Fever

Pus discharge from the nipple of the affected breast

Conventional Medical Treatment

If you suspect you have mastitis, visit your physician, who will physically examine the breast. A needle biopsy of the lump may be necessary to confirm diagnosis. Most cases of mastitis can be treated with oral antibiotics and analgesics (painkillers). If the abscess is serve, it may need to be drained. Talk to your physician about alternative feeding options for your baby while you are being treated for mastitis.

Complementary and Alternative Treatments

Nutrition and Supplementation

Other than drinking plenty of fluids, there isn''t much in the way of diet that can be done to treat mastitis. Do not stop nursing or the ducts will remain full. Over-filled ducts can exacerbate the problem.

These daily supplements help the nursing mother and baby:

free-form amino acid complex (as directed on label)-supplies necessary protein

calcium (1000 to 1500 mg)-needed by both mother and baby

magnesium (500 to 750 mg)-balances with calcium

vitamin B complex (50 mg 2 times daily)-necessary for milk production; relieves stress

prenatal vitamins (continue prescribed regimen)

(Consult your healthcare provider regarding the duration of treatment.)

Herbal Therapy

Echinacea, with its antibiotic compounds, is very helpful in treating mastitis and healing nipple fissures. Add a dropperful of tincture and 1 or 2 cloves of garlic to 1/2 cup carrot juice. Blend well in a blender. Drink several times a day.

To aid healing and ease pain, gently massage aloe vera gel into cracked nipples.

Homeopathy

A homeopathic practitioner may advise one of the following treatments for mastitis, depending on your symptoms:

Belladonna-for breasts that are inflamed, red, hot tender; throb; and have red streaks radiating from the nipples

Bryonia-for breasts that are hot hard, and painful, especially when you move

Silicea-if your nipples are cracked and infected

Phytolacca-for breasts that are very firm, sensitive, and have a purple hue; this remedy is also helpful if you feel pain throughout your body when you breastfeed your baby

Hydrotherapy

Apply warm, moist compresses to the affected breast before feedings to ease discomfort and help ensure that ducts drain.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture To lessen the inflammation caused by mastitis, the practitioner uses acupuncture to target the following points: Stomach 18 and 44, Gallbladder 41, Large Intestine 4, Small Intestine 1, and Conception Vessel I? In addition, ear points that correspond to the mammary gland, internal secretion, back of head, and adrenal gland also may be included.

Acupressure To treat mastitis, the practitioner may focus on Stomach 18, Conception Vessell 17, and Bladder 18, 20, and 21.

Chinese Herbal Therapy Leonurus may be used to quell the swelling associated with mastitis. Dandelion also may reduce breast pain and inflammation. The dosage varies, depending upon the severity of the condition and the form in which the herb is taken-check with your TCM practitioner.

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