Mastitis is inflammation (soreness and swelling) of the breast caused by an infection. The breast is usually painful, red, warm, and swollen. The lymph nodes under the arm may swell, and there may be discharge from the nipple.

Mastitis is treated with antibiotics. Sometimes the health care provider removes the infected fluid from the breast area with a needle.

Here's how to care for your child while the infection heals.

• Make sure your child finishes all the antibiotics as directed by the health care provider, even if they feel better. This is the best way to treat the infection.
• If your child is uncomfortable and your health care provider says it's OK, you can give acetaminophen (Tylenol^® or a store brand) or ibuprofen (Advil^®, Motrin^®, or a store brand). Follow the package directions for how much to give and how often. 
• If your child is more comfortable with the breast supported, they can wrap an elastic bandage around the chest (just tight enough to give some support) or wear a loose-fitting sports bra.
• To care for the infected area:
  • Wash the area daily with a gentle soap and dry with a clean towel.
  • Place a warm compress (a warm, damp washcloth) on the area for about 15 minutes a few times a day.
  • Don't push on or squeeze the area.
• Go to all follow-up visits as directed.

Your child:

• doesn't continue to get better as you follow the health care provider's instructions
• has new or increased:
  • redness, swelling, or pain of the breast
  • discharge from the nipple
• gets a new rash or redness anywhere on the skin
• can't take the medicine
• isn't eating and drinking normally

Your child:

• has a new or higher fever
• has red streaks spreading from the infected area
• seems to be getting worse or seems very ill

What causes mastitis? It happens when bacteria (a type of germ) that normally lives on the skin or in the nose/mouth gets into the breast (usually through the nipple) and causes an infection. Mastitis usually affects only one breast.

What makes mastitis more likely to happen in kids and teens? It's more likely to happen:

• as breasts grow rapidly during puberty in females
• after injury to the skin near the nipple (for example, from piercing or shaving)
• after a skin infection, when the germ spreads to the nipple area

Can mastitis cause long-term problems? Most kids and teens recover completely from mastitis with no lasting problems.