Can you dip often in and out of mastitis?

[e3chick]

This has happened three times now, and I am wondering if I had mild mastitis.

I had a painful area in one breast, which was tender to touch but not hot or red. At the time I was aware of it and tried to comb it when I was breastfeeding and I subconsciously fed more from that side. At the same time I had what I thought was mild flu for a day, went to bed early saying to dp that I was coming down with something because I was hot/cold, shaky and dizzy, then in the morning after resting I felt better.
This happened on two other occasions. I never saw them as related, I just thought it strange that I kept getting flu like symptoms and then recovering quickly.

I probably sound really dense for not linking the two things, but I thought mastitis had a hot red area on the breast, so I didn't think it was that I just thought it was maybe a blockage that I had to clear.

Was that mild mastitis do you think, that I managed to avert with rest and draining the breast? Writing it here makes me think it probably was.

Might have been ether. it might be best to take yourself and you baby to a breastfeeding group or the drs sometimes you can get a blocked ducked because baby is on quite right or has tucked a hand somewhere that pressing on your beast which is causing it. You may also need antibiotics. You partner or and friend may also be able to see.

It could also be a sign that you are trying to do too much. It it always worth taking time over feed and checking your both comfortable you have a drink and check you babies position. Also check that your baby is finishing one side completely before giving the other side.

Hope something in the does help good luck

Thank you castle. It happened after one or other baby (twins) slept for a big stretch at night, I think. And then the breast in question never really got emptied properly after that.
It hasn't happened since, I think it has just surprised me how quickly the flu symptoms came on after the tender spot emerged. I think I had thought it would take more than 24 hours.

Re: trying to do too much....I think that is inevitable with twins! I would love to take time over each feed with each baby, and offer each baby two breasts at each feed, that seems such a luxury!

Mastitis does come on very quickly, I'd say that was it. Congratulations on feeding your twins, must be hard work.