What should you know about male mastitis?

Inflammation may affect one area or a larger part of the breast. Symptoms can include breast pain, a firm tender area, skin warmth, redness, nipple sensitivity, or discharge. Fever, chills, and feeling unwell can suggest an infection, but their absence does not settle the diagnosis.

Mastitis is uncommon in men, so a new breast change should not be self-diagnosed. Causes can include bacterial infection, skin injury, nipple irritation, blocked drainage, hormone-related breast tissue, or an inflammatory condition. Breast cancer can also cause a persistent lump or skin or nipple change, so a clinician may need to examine and investigate symptoms rather than assuming mastitis.

Arrange an appointment if pain, redness, swelling, a lump, or discharge does not settle quickly or is getting worse. Keep the area clean, avoid squeezing a lump or nipple, and wear clothing that does not rub. A clinician may examine the breast, check nearby lymph nodes, and decide whether imaging, a swab, or prescription treatment is appropriate.

Write down when the change started, whether it is spreading, and any medicines or recent injury. Breast Pain and Painful Breastfeeding describe related symptom contexts, while Lactation Consultation is relevant when milk production or feeding is part of the situation.

Seek same-day medical advice for fever, chills, rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, pus-like discharge, or a rapidly enlarging swelling. Go to urgent care for fainting, confusion, breathing difficulty, or signs of severe illness. A persistent lump, nipple inversion, bloody discharge, or skin dimpling needs prompt assessment even without fever.

Does this look like infection or another cause of inflammation? Do I need imaging or a sample? Which warning signs should I watch for? How should I care for the area, and when should symptoms begin to improve?