[42F] Experiencing severe breast pain, swelling, and discharge

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, here are a few possibilities:

• Mastitis: This is an infection of the breast tissue that results in breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness. You might also have fever and chills. Mastitis most commonly affects women who are breast-feeding (lactation mastitis), but it can occur in women who aren't breast-feeding and in men.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and in some cases, draining the infected area.

• Breast Abscess: This is a complication of mastitis and involves a collection of pus in the breast tissue. The symptoms are similar to mastitis and there is usually a lump that can be felt.

  • Treatment often involves antibiotics and draining the pus from the abscess.

• Inflammatory Breast Cancer: This is a rare type of breast cancer that causes symptoms similar to mastitis. It's called inflammatory because the breast often looks swollen and red, or inflamed.

  • Treatment for inflammatory breast cancer usually involves chemotherapy to help shrink the tumor, followed by surgery to remove the tumor, then radiation therapy.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you can't get an appointment with your primary care doctor, consider going to an urgent care center or the emergency department.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms worsen or if you develop new symptoms such as increased redness or swelling, increased pain, or a high fever, seek medical attention immediately.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.