A breast abscess is an area of pus that has accumulated within a breast. Abscesses often cause localized pain, swelling and redness. In most cases, this condition is caused by an infection. In order to treat this condition, it is important to identify the risk factors and underlying cause of the breast abscess. Some cases can be treated with medication alone, while others may require drainage or surgery.
Breastfeeding
If the skin of the nipple or milk ducts breaks, bacteria can enter the breast and cause a breast infection in nursing mothers. The bacteria may be on the mother's skin or in the saliva of the baby.
A breast infection, also called mastitis, can cause a buildup of pus as the body works to fight the infection. Pain and swelling may be accompanied by fever and chills. MayoClinic.com states that antibiotics are usually required and that it may be possible to keep breastfeeding, even with this condition. To help prevent future problems, it is important to learn proper breastfeeding techniques.
Nipple Piercings
Piercing the nipples may increase the risk of developing a breast abscess, warns the National Institutes of Health. This can occur right after having the nipple pierced or it can develop as late as seven years afterward.
Smoking
While the exact mechanisms are not well understood, smokers appear to have a 15 percent higher chance of developing breast abscesses, reports the American College of Surgeons. Smokers are also at a higher risk of the condition recurring. Patients who smoke often need to go through multiple draining or surgical procedures to treat this condition. The risk climbs even higher if patients are also obese or diabetic.
