Need breastfeeding help...clogged ducts

K

katelynBB

Registered User
Hi..
I've been exclusively breastfeeding my two month old since birth, and this past Thurs. my right side felt really hard and when I pressed on the area, it hurt a lot.
I realized I may have clogged ducts, so I've been trying to nurse more and massage the area. The next morning, the area got softer and did not hurt anymore. Then last night, the lower area started hurting a lot more.. even when I fed my daughter it was so painful. At this moment it still hurts when I feed.
I'm also feeling really tired and not myself, so I checked my temperature and its 37.9, which isn't that high, but I'm still alittle worried.
I'm new to HK, so the only doctor I know is my OB, can I visit her? Or who do I have to see?

Or is there anything I can do at home without having to go see a doctor..

Thanks!
 
If you have a fever and feel flu like symptoms you should see a doctor for anti-biotics. You should apply heat to the affected area (or take a warm shower) before nursing/expressing to help loosen the plugged duct. You can also take ibuprofen for the pain and swelling. It could be the beginning of mastitis but since I'm not a doctor, but a fellow mother who has experienced frequent plugged ducts and non-bacterial mastitis I do not want to diagnose your situation over the internet. It is painful to nurse on the affected side but do not stop nursing that side. The ibuprofen will help with the pain. Also drink lots and lots of water. Be wary of nursing in the same position as that might have caused the plugged duct although there are many other reasons. If you want to read more about this check out:
http://www.kellymom.com/bf/concerns/mom/mastitis.html

I hope you feel better soon. I know what you are going through and it can be so painful. I highly recommend the Ibuprofen and it is safe to take whilst breastfeeding.

You can go to your OB but a general physician should also be able to help if you have one near you.
 
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Thanks ladybug...
Ibuprofen is pain reliever meds right... what brand can I purchase here in HK that is safe and not too strong.
 
I think Ibuprofen here is called Nurofen and it is for pain relief, fever reduction, and anti-inflammatory for the swelling. You can ask a chemist though to be certain and they will definitely know. Also, try and get as much rest as possible. Stay in bed with your baby and get as much help as you can around the house. If you use a baby carrier such as a Baby bjorn or Maya wrap then try to avoid using them at this time until you are better because sometimes the straps can cause the ducts to become blocked. Also, I try to wear a loose nursing bra (or none) at this time. Change your sleeping position and nursing positions frequently.
 
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hi katelyn, pls. do take this matter seriously and see a gynac...mine is dr. grace cheung in central....i had mastitis when my son was 2 months and she asked me to immediately visit her...it was really painful and my whole body had started hurting....she gave me Augmentin which helped take care of the pain....of crse a hot water shower also helps but only temporarily
 
Thanks for the replies...
I'm going to call my OB to see if she'll see me tomorrow
Mushi: if my doctor doesn't take these kinds of cases, can you PM me your doctor's phone number.

Thanks!
 
There is a paed in Tseung Kwun O who is also a lactation specialist. She helped me when I had blistered nipples from BF.

I also went to Christine Lam (lactation specialist) of QE hospital (you can call the hospital to make an appointment with her) and she was wonderful in treating my mastitis (I had it 3 times whilst expressing milk for my baby). Not sure if Queen Mary offers the same thing, but I guess they must.

Good luck and get well soon.
 
KatelynBB I have sent you a private message re a fantastic lactation consultant I highly recommend.
 
Thanks to everyone for your replies...

Bubbly... you had it 3 times!!! Oh my.. I didn't realize it was one of those things that could return back...

I never had this problem with my first daughter... I think it may be the way my little one is nursing.. I don't think she's getting the whole area into her mouth.
I guess I have to teach her again.
 
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