Clogged Milk Duct Symptoms

Signs of Clogged Ducts

• Clogged milk ducts become apparent when a woman notices a hard and firm lump on her breast. The skin on top of the bump is usually red. The bump is also painful to the touch and sometimes painful when not touched. Sometimes a low-grade fever is present, but not usually. The skin above the bump may be hot to the touch. This bump is usually located near the plugged duct, and is wedged-shaped or a hard lump.

Symptoms While Nursing

• Nursing mothers who have a plugged duct might notice that nursing on the side that is plugged is painful and difficult. The plugged duct will feel better after the feeding, however. Ducts feel more tender before a feeding. After nursing, the lump will appear and feel smaller. Other symptoms such as redness and heat around the lump will lessen after a nursing. A plugged duct usually only affects one breast at a time and comes on slowly.

Side Effects

• Because of a clogged duct, the milk supply in that breast might decrease. This decrease is temporary and supply bounces back after the duct is unclogged. Extra nursing or pumping can bring the supply back quicker. Milk might appear stringy or thick at times from the affected breast. After the duct is unclogged, the area can still be red for around a week. A bruise around the area might develop and appear for about a week.

Cause and Treatments

• Plugged ducts occur because of improper latch. Hurried feedings and nursing sleepy babies can also cause plugged ducts. Skipping feedings is another cause of plugged ducts. Pressure from a tight bra, stress and fatigue also may cause clogged milk ducts. Continue to nurse on the side that has the plugged duct. Eat nutritious foods to help your body heal and stay hydrated. Getting adequate rest, at least eight hours of sleep a night, can also help relieve clogged ducts. Work on getting the best latch you can to avoid clogged milk duct symptoms.