Fast From Sweets?

Any one in for a fast from sweets next week? (meaning NO sweets!)

Oct 26-29

I know it's only 3 days, but hey you gotta start small.

(Plus it's Halloween!!)

Breastfeeding Challenges

So lately I have been having more than my share of BREAST issues. I went from having pain every time Hallie would eat to having cracks you know where, to a clogged milk duct, to mastitis. Yikes!! Good thing I have good friends who give advice, the internet, and antibiotics. All have really helped me. So here is what I've FOUND:

Symptoms of clogged milk duct:

The first sign of a plugged duct may be a small, hard lump that's sore to the touch, or a very tender spot in your breast. Some women also notice redness on their breast. You might also feel achy, run down, and feverish, which could be a sign that your clogged duct has become infected.

I had a large lump that was tender and didn't go away even after Hallie ate.

Treatment:

• Rub and massage the area while in a warm shower or bath.
• Apply moist hot packs to your breasts before feeding. The heat enables the milk ducts to open better and allows for better milk drainage.
• Use massage and heat on the affected side while you breastfeed. After applying heat and your breast is still warm, massage from your armpit down to your nipple.
• Avoid putting pressure on one area of the breast for an length of time and wear a comfortable and well fitted nursing bra.
• Get enough rest (I know that one is easier said than done!).

From: http://www.babycenter.com/0_clogged-milk-ducts_8494.bc

I rubbed and massaged it and fed Hallie frequently. I also placed a hot cloth on my breast for 10 minutes before and after I nursed. It went away. Another cool thing I found was instead of using a hot cloth which doesn't last long. Fill up a disposable diaper with hot water and wring out until it's not dripping and making a mess. Place it on your breast and the heat will last MUCH LONGER.

Symptoms of Mastitis:

• Breast enlargement on one side only
• Breast lump
• Breast pain
• Fever and flu-like symptoms including nausea and vomiting
• Itching
• Nipple discharge (may contain pus)
• Nipple sensation changes
• Swelling, tenderness, redness, and warmth in breast tissue
• Tender or enlarged lymph nodes in armpit on the same side

This time things were way worse than before. I knew I needed to see the doctor.

Treatment:

• Self-care may include applying moist heat to the infected breast tissue for 15 to 20 minutes four times a day.
• Antibiotic medications are usually very effective in treating a breast infection. You are encouraged to continue to breast-feed or to pump to relieve breast engorgement from milk production while receiving treatment.

From: https://www.google.com/health/ref/Breast+infection

In my case I am currently on an antibiotic.

It hurts like H E double hockey sticks!

I hope this helps other moms to catch the symptoms before they get worse.

Any one else have something to add?

I'm Back

Oh my GOODNESS it has been forever! I've neglected this blog and I apologize. I'm back and won't do it again! :)

Now let's get down to business. My friend Mrs. Long, a proud new home owner, suggested quite a while ago that we post success stories. I think that is a great idea!! If those moms who have asked a question on this blog would email me a quick update I will post it and tag it success story. I know I have several to post.

And PLEASE, please, please do not be shy about asking question for me to post. The blog can't function without them.

Can't wait to hear from you!