18-6-2008 - I HAVE VASOSPASMS IN MY NIPPLES, WHAT NEXT????

My mood while writing this blog: Ok

nipple vasospasm

Nipple Vasospasm This fact sheet is designed to help you understand nipple vasospasm and to help you manage your symptoms. If you have further questions or you feel you are not managing the pain you can contact the services listed for further information or support. What is vasospasm? Vasospasm occurs when blood vessels constrict (or tighten). Vasospasm may occur in any blood vessels in the body such as in the heart, brain or eyes. The fingers are most commonly affected. Some people notice that the ends of their fingers turn white in cold situations; also known as Raynaud's phenomenon, where fingers have a tendency to turn white in cold weather. Less commonly, blood vessels in the nipples are affected, causing pain during, immediately after, or between breastfeeds. Who is likely to have vasospasm? Women with a family history of Raynaud's phenomenon Women who tend to have cold fingers or feet or have "poor circulation" Women with a low body mass index (i.e. thin people). What do you notice when you have nipple vasospasm? You may feel an intense nipple pain, which is worse when you are cold (or in a cold situation). Some women describe the pain as a burning and throbbing pain You may notice the nipple or the tip of the nipple blanches or turns white You may notice other colour changes of the nipple. The nipples may turn blue or purple or red before returning to their normal colour. How long does nipple vasospasm last? You may notice the signs and symptoms for a few seconds, minutes or even longer. How severe is nipple vasospasm? Nipple vasospasm pain ranges from minor discomfort to severe pain. Some women may feel that the pain is so severe that they are unable to continue breastfeeding. How can you manage nipple vasospasm? Avoiding or reducing known triggers will help reduce nipple vasospasm. Triggers that may cause an episode of nipple vasospasm include: poor attachment (seek advice from your lactation consultant) nipple damage (e.g. cracked nipple) or an infection (e.g. nipple thrush) exposing your nipples to cold air some medications or chemicals may worsen nipple spasm, e.g. nicotine (smoking cigarettes). How can you reduce the severity of episodes? Keep your nipples warm - this may help to relieve pain immediately Wear an extra layer of clothing Apply warmth to the nipple, such as a warm pack Use "breast warmers", e.g. Flectalon (available from the Australian Breastfeeding Association) Avoid cold exposure (or sudden temperature changes) Do not "air" your nipples Warm your bathroom before undressing for showers, etc. If the pain continues, you may consider taking supplements or medication. Supplements include: fish oil capsules (containing essential fatty acids) or evening primrose oil (gamma linoleic) may improve blood vessel relaxation magnesium tablets help to relax the blood vessels. You may take Blackmore's Biomagnesium 1 - 2 tablets daily (each tablet is equivalent to 300mg magnesium) medication: Prescription medication may be appropriate. Contact a lactation consultant or medical professional for more advice.

What Are Nipple Vasospasms?
Nipple vasospasms are the painful sensations that affect some women during breastfeeding. Women affected by nipple vasospasms describe the pain as an intense throbbing or stabbing sensation in the breast and back area. The veins within the breast constrict, causing these painful sensations.

Nipple vasospasms are linked to Raynaud’s Phenomenon, a disorder typified by episodes of vasospastic attacks in the fingers and toes and, occasionally, the nose and earlobes. Raynaud’s Phenomenon affects between 5 and 10% of the general population. It has been estimated that nipple vasospasms affects up to 20% of women! It’s surprising therefore that the literature on nipple vasospasms is so limited.

Do You Have Nipple Vasospasms?
Do you suffer from painful stabbing sensations in your chest area and back? You’re not alone. Many women visit their lactation consultants, eager to find a solution to these pains that make breastfeeding a difficult journey. Frequently, the symptoms are overlooked or misdiagnosed by lactation consultants as symptoms of plugged ducts or a yeast infection.

The lack of awareness is particularly distressing as many mothers look forward to the benefits and joys of breastfeeding only to become discouraged by their painful experiences with nipple vasospasms. The good news is that nipple vasospasms will subside and can be successfully treated with medication and alternative treatments.

Nipple Vasospasm: Causes and Symptoms
If you have breast pains and you’re not sure what’s causing them, take a look at some of the symptoms of nipple vasospasms, which include:

• having circulatory problems that intensify in cold weather or under emotional stress
• nipples that will change colors from white to purple in between breast feedings
• stabbing, stinging, or burning pain throughout the chest area, back, and shoulders

Nipple Vasospasm Treatment
There are many methods of relieving nipple vasospasms. One coping strategy is to reduce the stressors in your life. Many mothers also find it helpful to keep warm during breastfeeding — you can try placing a heating pad on whichever breast is not currently feeding.

The drug Nifidipine is prescribed for nipple vasospasms and women find it to be the most effective treatment choice.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of nipple vasospasms or have any other breastfeeding problems, talk to your lactation consultant.