Clogged milk duct and fever: what to know

A blocked area may feel tender, firm or sore, while milk flow from that part of the breast is reduced. Fever, chills, body aches, warmth or redness can occur when inflammation develops. Mastitis is a common presentation of breast inflammation, but a fever can also have another cause, such as a respiratory infection. The breast may feel worse quickly, so note when symptoms began and whether the red or painful area is spreading.

Continue breastfeeding or expressing milk in a comfortable way unless a clinician tells you otherwise. Avoid forceful massage, tight clothing and repeated pumping to empty the breast, because these can aggravate swelling. Rest, drink fluids and use a cool pack for short periods. A healthcare professional or pharmacist can advise whether a suitable pain or fever medicine is appropriate for you, especially if you are breastfeeding or have another medical condition.

Contact a clinician promptly if fever, chills or breast pain continue, the red area expands, or you feel increasingly unwell. Seek urgent help for confusion, fainting, trouble breathing, severe weakness or rapidly worsening symptoms. A clinician may examine the breast and decide whether treatment for bacterial mastitis is needed. Do not wait for a lump to disappear if the fever is rising or your ability to feed is affected.

Ask whether your symptoms fit inflammatory mastitis, whether you should change feeding or expressing, and which medicines are compatible with breastfeeding. Tell them about allergies, recent illness, nipple damage and any previous breast problems.