When mastitis is present, breasts are typically described as being?

Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that results in breast inflammation. When mastitis is present, the affected breast typically appears hard, swollen, and warm to the touch. This occurs due to the accumulation of fluid and immune response in the breast tissue, which causes swelling and warmth as the body fights the infection.

The hardness is a result of the engorgement of milk or the presence of inflammation, while the swelling from edema contributes to the fullness and discomfort. The warmth is indicative of inflammation and potential infection, as increased blood flow occurs to the area in response to the condition.

In contrast, the other options mention characteristics (softness, flatness, coolness) that do not align with the physiological response associated with mastitis, reflecting more normal or non-inflamed breast tissue conditions.