clogged ducts after almost 4 months of nursing?

[momma22boys]

Yesterday I realized that my rt. breast was starting to get a sore spot on it. When I started nursing I had issues with breast infections and had a few clogged ducts but I thought that was all behind me. I fear it is back, and my breast is so sore that I can barely stand to have it touched this morning. I have put a hot pack on it in hopes that will open up the duct if that is the problem. Has anyone else had this issue reoccur after months of no issues? My LO has not changed his nursing habits at all and I am never engorged anymore so I'm not sure how this happened....but it HURTS!!!! Any suggestions would be great!

[CheriK]

Oh, yes, it's not uncommon & it can sometimes be hard to say why a particular plugged duct occurs.  Do you know ways of resolving a plugged duct? Links:

http://www.llli.org/NB/NBbreastproblems.html

http://www.kellymom.com/bf/concerns/mom/mastitis.html

The best treatment is to encourage your DS to nurse as much as possible, with his chin (best) or nose (2nd best) pointing toward the plug.  You might also combine massage of the sore area with nursing.  If you use OTC medications, ibuprofen will help with the inflammation.  Cold might also be more helpful than heat, as it reduces inflammation.   Cabbage leaves are a great thing to use, as they provide cold plus help decrease inflammation.  If heat feels good, then immediately before nursing to help encourage milk flow.  And, just as you would for any illness, fluids fluids fluids and rest rest rest!

I've been prone to plugged ducts the whole time I've breastfed, but do often go months without a problem.  Sometimes it's obvious why (child nursing less for whatever reason, getting hit in the breast, etc).  Other times I have no idea why, but I know the early symptoms and start treatment immediately.  I also take lecithin twice a day while breastfeeding as it really helps me.  If they continue to recur for you, you might consider this.  You might also want to consider your diet (reduce saturated fat and processed foods), sleep, and whether you routinely do anything that puts pressure on your breasts (seat belt, purse strap, baby carrier).

[momma22boys]

 Thanks for tips I'll look into that if i keep having problems!