Redness of breast

[hi2022]

About 6 weeks ago I noticed my breast was very red almost like a ring up to the top, covering about the third of my breast. I assumed mastitis but doctor said I would have pain/fever/chills for confirmed case and left it at that.

I went back 2 weeks later and asked for a face to face appointment where he agreed mastitis and I was given antibiotics. Despite finishing the course I think I only noticed one day where my breast didn't look inflamed.
I went back yesterday where doctor said it was strange the antibiotics didn't work and gave me another course of them.

I do tend to catastrophize but I do feel I'm presenting with a lot of the symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer. My breast is red (sometimes purple after a day of feeding), I don't have any other typical mastitis symptoms, antibiotics didn't work, no lumps, itchy breast and the infected breast is larger than my other one.

Really just wondering if anyone can offer any advice as to whether I should be pushing more or if anyone has had a similar experience.

I have no direct experience of this particular problem, but as a general principle, if you're not confident in your doctor's response, it is entirely reasonable to be pushy or to get a second opinion. Your doctor may be accurate in his diagnosis, but so far his efforts sound a bit underwhelming. Could you see another doctor? Do you have access to any other expert services such as a breastfeeding nurse?

I agree with you OP.
reness in the breast which doesn't clear up is a sympton that should be referred to the breast clinic.

Doesn't mean it is breast cancer, but they need to do mamograms and blood tests or whatever.

I would ask for a different GP and specifically say how come you are not referring me on the 2 week urgent breast referral?

sorry, I missed that you were breast feeding.

That may give a different response, but I would still want to see another GP, or have more investigations. If it is 'just' mastitis or an infection, then it needs clearing up too.

@steppemum

sorry, I missed that you were breast feeding.

That may give a different response, but I would still want to see another GP, or have more investigations. If it is 'just' mastitis or an infection, then it needs clearing up too.

Yes I feel that giving me the same course is pointless

@SpeedReader

I have no direct experience of this particular problem, but as a general principle, if you're not confident in your doctor's response, it is entirely reasonable to be pushy or to get a second opinion. Your doctor may be accurate in his diagnosis, but so far his efforts sound a bit underwhelming. Could you see another doctor? Do you have access to any other expert services such as a breastfeeding nurse?

Thank you! I will try push again

Ask to be referred to a breast clinic. I imagine this could be done via a telephone appointment or econsult as well if you cannot get a face to face appointment any time soon. Perhaps the surgery can get you an urgent appointment. Might be a good idea to mention what you are worried about exactly as well. All the best,