Diseases and Conditions

Mammary duct ectasia

Lifestyle and home remedies

To relieve discomfort associated with mammary duct ectasia, you might try these self-care measures:

  • Apply warm compresses. A warm compress applied to your nipple and surrounding area may soothe painful breast tissue.
  • Use breast pads for nipple discharge. Using breast pads or nursing pads can keep fluid from leaking through your clothing. These pads are available at drugstores and many retail stores that sell baby care products.
  • Wear a support bra. Choose bras with good support to minimize breast discomfort. A well-fitting bra can also help keep a breast pad in place to absorb nipple discharge.
  • Sleep on the opposite side. Avoid sleeping on the same side of your body as your affected breast to help prevent swelling and further discomfort.
  • Stop smoking. Smoking may make it harder to treat an infection, and ongoing smoking may result in recurrent infections or an abscess.