What causes non-lactation mastitis and how to treat it

Non-lactation mastitis is often caused by infection, blocked milk ducts, hormone fluctuations and bad lifestyle habits. It can be treated with medication, surgical drainage and adjustment of lifestyle habits. In severe cases, medical treatment should be sought as soon as possible to avoid worsening of the condition.

1. Infectious factors

The most common cause of non-lactating mastitis is bacterial infection. Bacteria on the surface of the skin (such as Staphylococcus aureus) enter the breast through nipple damage, skin wounds or ducts, causing local inflammation and swelling. For example, nipple damage or breast cysts in non-lactating women are prone to increased risk of infection. At this time, local antibiotic treatment is needed to control the infection, such as penicillins or cephalosporins. At the same time, the breasts should be kept clean and dry to avoid further infection.

2. Blocked milk ducts

Blockage of the mammary ducts can easily lead to the accumulation of milk or secretions, triggering an inflammatory response. This is more common in patients with breast hyperplasia or duct ectasia. When breast pain or local lumps occur, hot compresses and manual massage can help clear the ducts. If the lumps persist, surgery may be required to clear the blockage or drain the pus to relieve the symptoms.

3. Hormone Fluctuations

Fluctuations in the levels of estrogen and progesterone in women can also cause increased secretions in the breast ducts, leading to local inflammation. This phenomenon is common in women during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause. Improving breast health can be supplemented with hormone-regulating treatments, such as taking hormone-balancing drugs, but this must be done under the guidance of a doctor. At the same time, endocrine can be regulated through regular work and rest, stress control and a healthy diet (such as consuming soy and deep-sea fish).

4. Bad living habits

Smoking, drinking too much, and wearing too small underwear for a long time may cause damage to the mammary ducts or accumulation of secretions, increasing the risk of mastitis. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, and choosing underwear with good breathability and appropriate size will help maintain breast health. Avoid squeezing the mammary glands or overstimulating the breasts.

5. Pathological causes

In some cases, non-lactation mastitis may be caused by breast tumors or autoimmune diseases. These problems are usually accompanied by recurrent breast pain, epidermal ulcers or abscesses, which can be easily confused with ordinary mastitis. For those who have recurrent illness or are ineffective with conventional treatment, they should go to the hospital for breast ultrasound or histopathological examination to rule out the possibility of tumors.

Non-lactation mastitis may be caused by a variety of reasons, and it is particularly important to choose the appropriate treatment method for the specific situation. In life, maintaining good personal hygiene, regular breast examinations, and correcting unhealthy lifestyle habits can effectively prevent the development of breast diseases. If symptoms worsen or persist, you should see a doctor as soon as possible to avoid worsening the condition or causing other complications.