A breast abscess is a painful collection of pus that forms in the breast.

 

Symptoms may include:

- Redness

- Swelling of surrounding area

- Area feels hot

- Fever

 

Causes:

Breast abscesses are often linked to Mastitis, which usually affect breastfeeding women.  It is caused either by bacteria, or by blockage of the milk ducts.

Non-breastfeeding women can also develop mastitis –a bacteria can enter through a cracked nipple or a piercing.

 

Treatment:

An abscess needs to be drained.  It can mostly be drained with a small needle and a syringe, or for larger abscesses a small incision need to be made.

Antibiotics and anti-inflammatories.