Redness, Infection, or Pus Isn’t “Normal” But It Is Treatable - When Seen Early.
Breast redness, swelling, or pus discharge can be alarming – but most infections are easily treatable when diagnosed early.
At Prajnam, our breast specialist identifies the exact cause and helps you recover quickly, comfortably, and without unnecessary antibiotics or procedures.
What You’re Experiencing Matters
Redness
Warmth
Swelling
Throbbing Pain
pus
from the breast or nipple are signs of inflammation or infection.
This may happen due to blocked ducts, bacterial infection, abscess formation, or inflammation of deeper breast tissue.
Most importantly: infections are benign (non-cancerous) – but ignoring them can worsen symptoms or lead to abscess.
Understanding why it’s happening brings faster relief and prevents complications.
Types of Redness, Infection & Pus Conditions
Mastitis (Breast Infection)
A painful breast inflammation that may or may not involve infection.
Common symptoms:
- Redness and warmth
- Localized pain or throbbing
- Fever, chills, or body ache
- Hard, tender area in the breast
Breast Abscess (Collection of Pus)
When an untreated infection forms a pocket of pus.
Symptoms include:
- Severe pain
- Swelling or a lump filled with pus
- Red, tight skin
- Fever
Non-Infectious Redness / Inflammation
Not all redness is infection. Sometimes it can be due to:
Symptoms include:
- Skin irritation
- Dermatitis or allergic reaction
- Inflammatory breast changes
- Trauma or pressure
Common Causes of Redness, Infection & Pus
Redness or pus occurs when breast tissue or ducts become inflamed or blocked.
Blocked Milk Ducts
Common in breastfeeding women. Leads to pressure, pain, redness, and infection if untreated.
Bacterial Infection
When bacteria enter through cracked nipples, blocked ducts, or skin breaks.
Abscess Formation
Untreated mastitis can lead to a pus-filled cavity that needs specialist drainage.
Nipple Cracks or Injury
A common entry point for bacteria – especially in breastfeeding women.
Granulomatous Mastitis
A rare inflammatory condition that mimics infection but needs a completely different treatment – requiring a breast specialist’s evaluation.
Skin Conditions (Eczema/Dermatitis)
Can cause redness, scaling, or itching around the nipple.
Improper Bra Support / Friction
Can irritate the skin and cause redness or inflammation.
When Should You See a Doctor?
A timely evaluation brings relief and prevents abscess formation.
Get evaluated immediately if you notice:
Redness that spreads or worsens
Fever with breast pain
Pus or nipple discharge
A painful lump along with redness
Cracked nipples with severe pain
Symptoms lasting beyond 48 hours
Redness that spreads or worsens
Pus or nipple discharge
Fever with breast pain
A painful lump along with redness
Cracked nipples with severe pain
Symptoms lasting beyond 48 hours
Frequently Asked Questions ?
No. It can be due to irritation, allergy, inflammation, or blocked ducts. A breast specialist can differentiate correctly.
If untreated – yes.
With early scarless drainage – recovery is quick and safe.
Yes. Non-lactational mastitis is common and needs specialist care.
Pus indicates infection or abscess – it requires immediate evaluation.
Most infections and abscesses at Prajnam are treated without surgery, using minimally invasive scarless methods.
Worried about redness, swelling, or pus?
Let our breast expert diagnose and treat it early – with clarity and comfort.
expert ultrasound and minimally-invasive scarless treatments – all in one place.
Breast Conditions
Breast Pain
Asymmetry
Nipple Discharge
Lump or Swelling
Breastfeeding Difficulties
Redness, Infection, or Pus
Cancer Risk Assessment
Contact Us
39 & 40 Ground Floor, M2K Corporate Park,
Sector 51, Gurgaon