Mastitis

Mastitis is an inflammatory condition of the breast, which can be caused by bacterial or fungal infections. It is most common in women who are breastfeeding infants, due to the high levels of milk production and the close contact between mother and baby. Symptoms include swelling and tenderness of the breast, redness, and heat around the affected area. If left untreated, mastitis can cause fever, chills, and general malaise. Treatment of mastitis usually involves antibiotics and careful hygiene, such as washing the breast area with soap and warm water before and after nursing the baby. Mastitis is important to diagnose early, as it can cause severe health problems for the mother and her baby if not treated promptly.