Pants, I think I might have a plugged duct or mastitis

[Babieseverywhere]

Not sure why but I think I have a plugged duct or the start of mastitis.

I feel very shivery unwell, feeling very tired (have done for a couple of days) today my left breast is lumpy and painful with several red patches.

I am trying to use that breast first to feed with and using breast compressions to get as much milk out as possible. Have massaged it with a hot flannel in the shower.

I have been reading this Kellymom page

So how long do I leave red lumpy patches before I go to the doctor ?

[Poledra]

I would get to the doctor as soon as possible. I had possible mastitis earlier this year and went to the GP. She gave me a script for anitbiotics and told me to fill it, and use them if I felt they were necessary. I didn't use it in the end as I didn't have to, but it made me feel better to know I had them there just in case.

Have you tried the ol' cabbage leaves in the bra?

[Babieseverywhere]

No chance of the doctors today. You have to have them on redial from 7.55am (they open from 8.30am, take phone call from 8am)to get an appointment.

I'll see how things go today.

[plantwoman]

I have had this before - esp when mine were newborn in the 1st week or so - how old is your baby?

TBH i just took, paracetamol and nurofen went to bed and fed through it.
The paracetamol will help with the shivery feeling and the nurofen will take away the pain. If it is a blocked duct you can feed through it and it will pass within 24 hours or so, if it is mastitis, then you will need to see a doctor i'm afraid and prob go on antibiotics.
HTH

[TheProvincialLady]

GO TO BED NOW! Seriously, it is the most important part of the treatment IMO. Feed/express and no nothing else but lie down and rest.

Poor you

[Babieseverywhere]

My baby is 10 months old and I still nurse his toddler sister as well. I would love to go to bed now, however my baby has different ideas and is currently crawling around shouting "Mmmmm" demanding attention and my toddler has just gone to bed and I need to wait until she is properly asleep before I go I'll go in half an hour.

TBH I feel just the same no better and no worse. I will try to get a prescription for AB tomorrow just in case things get worse.

I didn't think I would get this problem, so far on as such. But the Kellymom page did say feeding more than one can be a trigger point. That said I have had things so much easier this time around, so I have been very lucky to date.

[Poledra]

How are you doing today, Babieseverywhere?

[Babieseverywhere]

Still lumpy red patches but I feel slightly better and I think my breast is getting better, still hurts but not as much. I think I have caught it in time. Still feels very bruised mind.

Still putting both nurselings on my poorly breast first.

[TheProvincialLady]

Good news, take care of yourself (if possible)

[Babieseverywhere]

Thanks TPL