[lifehacker]

I posted about a week ago about a sore spot on my left breast. Following advice I encouraged ds to feed a lot, used heat packs etc and it cleared up and I had no pain for several days but now it's back again and it's so sore. ds leaned against me and I just about jumped through the roof. I am so tired and feel like crap but that could be related to my RA.
Not sure what to do? I'm worried about mastitis but most info I read online says you only need to go to the GP if there is a fever and chills, which I don't think I have.
Should I just keep feeding and hope it improves again?

TIA

[imamumto3]

keep feeding and try and rest as much as possible. I found the fever came on really quickly and knocked me for 6. it cleared very quickly on the anti biotics. another thought if you feel it could keep reoccurring is to go to the gp now, get the script made up and then only take it is necessary. I did this, with my obs recommendation, when it got close to Christmas and it would be difficult to get to a gp. I didn't end up needing the abs, but it was reassuring knowing I had them on hand

[noi'mnot]

I suggest you keep feeding, and check positioning carefully. Is the lump in the same place as last time? If so, it looks like something is happening to block that duct - are you wearing different bras, sleeping in a different position, feeding in a different position?

I'd be worried about the same duct being blocked again, I think you could benefit from some professional advice - call the ABA helpline for a start on 1800 686 268 to discuss with them. They'll give you good advice, and more specific tips on when to see a doctor.

Good luck!

[Jemstar]

I would go to the GP, you do not want to end up with a breast abscess. Get it checked.

[wallofdodo]

If you can feel a bit of a blockage, try to feed so his chin is pointing towards it. And then sort of massage the area and push towards the nipple as he is feeding. Also try wearing cabbage leaves.

If still sore in the morning, go to GP. Good luck op, it is not fun.

[lifehacker]

Yep it is exactly the same place. Don't think I am doing anything differently, ds is 13 months so we've been feeding the same way for a while.
I might see if I can get an appt with the GP tomorrow just to be safe.

Thanks for the # noi'mnot - I will give it a call.

[Lyra]

I got mastitis when my second child was 9 months old. Your symptoms sound very similar to mine. I ignored it and almost ended up in hospital. Go and see a doctor, could be mastitis could be something else, best to get it checked out anyways

[KRT]

Also try getting into a hot bath and feeding DS while you are in there - being careful that the water isn't too hot for him. I found that the heat helped move the blocked duct, much more than feeding outside the bath.

I would also make an appointment at the GP tomorrow. Make sure you tell the receptionist that you think it's mastitis.

[lucky 2]

Pp's have given great advice, if you are extra exhausted then this might be the beginning of mastitis so you might get more symptoms tonight.
I'd keep working on the lump and off to the Drs tomorrow.
Good luck!