A plugged milk duct presents as a white dot or bleb at the end of the nipple and is commonly referred to as a milk blister. Larger milk ducts may also become plugged and present as a tender palpable lump under the areola or proximal breast, with minimal localized erythema or systemic symptoms (such as fever or malaise). These conditions generally respond to measures to open the blockage and fully drain the breast, including frequent breastfeeding, manual massage, and avoidance of engorgement and tight-fitting brassieres or clothing.
