The breasts are liable to become inflamed and “gather” during the whole period of nursing. Injury, cold, sudden weaning may set up inflammation. The best preventive is to keep the breast well drawn, either by natural means, or artificially by means of nipple-glasses.
General Treatment.-When suppuration does occur the breast must be supported with light bandages and protected from all irritation. Light linseed poultices should be applied at intervals to relieve pain. When they fail to do this they should not be continued. The breast should be drawn with nipple-glasses if any milk can be induced to flow.
Medicines.-(Every hour until relief is obtained.)
Bryonia 3.-
At the commencement, breasts swollen, hard, and feel heavy, shooting pains, dry skin, thirst, fever.
Bellad. 3.-
Where the skin is red like erysipelas, swelling, hardness, shooting and tearing pains.
Mercur. 6.-
Hardness remains after inflammatory symptoms have subsided. (Every three hours.)
Hepar 6.-
When suppuration has already commenced, indicated by throbbing and chills.
Silicea 6.-
Fetid watery discharge.