Mastitis usually affects only one breast and the symptoms can develop quickly.
Symptoms of mastitis include:
- the appearance of a red area on part of your breast that may feel hot and painful to touch,
- the breast can then start to appear lumpy and red, and
- a burning pain in the breast, that may be continuous or only occur when you are breastfeeding.
Some women will also experience flu-like symptoms such as:
- aches,
- fever,
- shivering and chills,
- feeling tired,
- feeling anxious or stressed, and
- a general sense of feeling unwell.
When to seek medical advice
You should always contact your GP or midwife if you think you have mastitis. Though the condition is usually not serious, advice and sometimes prompt treatment may be required to prevent the condition worsening.
Also, seeing your GP or midwife will help reassure you and lessen any feelings of anxiety.
