What to do if engorgement causes fever

Fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Fever caused by milk engorgement is usually due to excessive accumulation of breast milk, which triggers acute mastitis. This condition can be improved through measures such as stopping breastfeeding, applying warm compresses, duct dilation and irrigation, medication, or surgical treatment.

1. Stop breastfeeding

Acute mastitis commonly presents with redness, swelling, warmth, pain in the breast, and high fever. It is recommended to temporarily stop breastfeeding and use a breast pump or gentle massage to empty the breasts, helping to relieve milk stasis and alleviate symptoms.

2. Warm compress

Applying a warm towel or gently massaging the breast tissue can help unclog blocked milk ducts, promote milk flow, and reduce discomfort.

3. Breast duct dilation and irrigation

Under medical guidance, blocked mammary ducts may undergo retrograde irrigation to ensure patency of the ducts, facilitate milk drainage, and improve symptoms.

4. Medication

If axillary temperature exceeds 38.5°C, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used under a doctor's supervision. Common medications include ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, acetaminophen tablets, and diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, which help reduce inflammation, lower fever, and relieve pain. Additionally, antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules, roxithromycin capsules, or cefradine capsules may be prescribed to inhibit or eliminate bacteria, control infection, and promote recovery.

5. Surgical treatment

If the condition is severe and has led to a breast abscess, and medication proves ineffective, surgical incision and drainage may be recommended by a physician to remove pus, relieve symptoms, and accelerate recovery.

To avoid adverse effects on both maternal and infant health, individuals experiencing the above symptoms should seek timely medical attention and receive scientifically guided treatment.