Mastitis

Mastitis can cause a fever or flu-like symptoms. In the breast, there can be additional symptoms:

• Painful sensation when touched
• Redness
• Swelling
• Warmth

A MinuteClinic provider will discuss a person’s symptoms, health history and (when applicable) breastfeeding techniques. They can perform an examination as well as prescribe antibiotics and over-the-counter treatments, when necessary.

1. You may have to answer a few questions to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

   If you made your appointment online:
   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

   If you made your appointment in the clinic:
   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

   If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
   To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth, email address and phone number to join the visit.

3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, a receipt and educational material. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

The most common cause of inflammatory mastitis is an oversupply of milk in the breast, which can lead to engorgement. Different things can cause the initial inflammation:*

• An overproduction of milk
• Putting pressure on the breast that restricts flow, such as wearing a tight bra or using a tight seatbelt
• Smoking

Bacterial mastitis happens when bacteria enter through a crack or cut in the nipple.

Bacterial infections like mastitis may be treated with antibiotics. Compresses (cool or warm), lymphatic drainage (such as breastfeeding) and over-the-counter (OTC) medications may help ease the symptoms* while taking antibiotics.

Mastitis is usually diagnosed through a physical exam. Sometimes, an ultrasound or fluid removal (to identify the type of bacterial infection) may be needed to diagnose.

After starting treatment, a person can start to feel better in a few days.* However, it can take days to a few weeks before your symptoms completely disappear. 

Untreated mastitis can lead to an abscess that may need additional treatment. In rare cases, mastitis can lead to sepsis.*

A MinuteClinic provider will discuss a person’s symptoms, health history and (when applicable) breastfeeding techniques. They can prescribe antibiotics and over-the-counter treatments. If an ultrasound or fluid removal is needed, they can recommend a specialist.