Pregnancy , having a baby, and breastfeeding can all set off a pretty major breast change that can contribute to itchy boobs and itchy nipples: Your breasts can go way up in size, says Dr. Which, you knew that already, but it bears repeating here because that change can lead to stretch marks, which Dr. Ross notes can cause itching in some people as they form. And the breastfeeding process specifically may cause your nipples to become dry and irritated from all that contact.
An underactive thyroid can cause dry skin that can lead to itchy breasts, in addition to many other symptoms like fatigue, constipation, thinning hair, and a slower heart rate, the Mayo Clinic says. So many medications come with a long list of side effects, and itchy skin can be one of them. These can include things like blood pressure medications, says Dr.
Ross, or even aspirin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Jacoub explains. Holmes says. Radiation is unpleasant for many reasons—and itchy boobs can be one of them. But, in general, these are some good steps to take to try to get relief:.
Goldenberg says that a topical antibiotic cream like Neosporin may help with the irritation. Use an intense moisturizer: You can help soothe your itchy boobs with a moisturizer, Dr.
The best moisturizer for your itchy breasts will depend on your preferences. Soothe your sunburn: If a sunburn is your issue, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends cool baths or showers and aloe-vera-based moisturizers to calm your overheated skin.
Here are some good tips for how to make your poor skin feel better after a sunburn. Try a new bra: Wearing lightweight bras and undergarments can help keep the skin of your breasts cool, lowering your risk of developing a rash, Dr. Ross says. This means that there are cancer cells but they are completely contained within the lining of the breast ducts. There is a type of breast cancer called inflammatory breast cancer that can cause skin changes on your breast.
With this type of cancer, the breast or part of the breast can become red, inflamed, painful and swollen. Symptoms of breast cancer include a lump or thickening in the breast. Find out more about this and other possible symptoms and when you should see your GP. This is a rare type of breast cancer. The breast might look swollen and red inflamed and may feel warm. You should see your doctor immediately if you experience: bloody, yellow, or brown drainage inverted nipple sore breasts skin changes that make your breast look like an orange peel thickened breast tissue If you are breast-feeding and experience extreme pain or other symptoms of mastitis, see a doctor.
Home Remedies: If your breast is itchy but doesn't have a rash, it is most likely due to a simple allergic reaction, dry skin, or breast growth. Fortunately, the itching caused by these causes should be easily treatable at home.
Topical creams and gels: Consider applying a simple anti-itch cream or gel to your breasts. Over-the-counter OTC options usually include a numbing agent local anesthetic called pramoxine, which relieves the itchiness of the skin.
Antihistamines: For allergic reactions or itching that seems to be coming from the skin on your breast, consider trying an over-the-counter antihistamine such as: cetirizine Zyrtec diphenhydramine Benadryl fexofenadine Allegra loratadine Claritin antihistamines work to reduce your body's reaction to an allergen and reduce itching and irritation.
Prevention and hygiene: If the itchy rash on your breast is caused by dry skin, better skin care habits could help relieve it considerably. It is also important to take good care of the skin on and under your breasts to avoid more serious conditions such as yeast infections in the area.
Wash and dry thoroughly: Use a mild soap to clean your skin and be sure to dry the area under the breasts well to avoid retaining moisture. Change your skincare products: If you use soaps, detergents, or other products that are strongly scented or contain sodium lauryl sulfate, they may dry out and irritate your breasts.
Look for products aimed at sensitive skin. Frequently Asked Questions:. What does it mean when your nipple itches? A lot of things can cause itchy nipples. Why are my nipples itching like crazy? Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is the most common cause of itchy nipples.
With this condition, itching is almost always present and can be severe. The itchiness can start before you can even see a rash. The rash may include small, oozing or crusty blisters. Does itchy breasts mean cancer? Translation: Scratching that rash will only lead to more itchiness. To alleviate symptoms, the National Eczema Association recommends applying a nourishing moisturizer, such as one with ceramides lipids that help skin retain moisture , to replenish the skin barrier throughout the day, applying cold compresses, and wearing soft, breathable clothing.
But for a long-term management plan, make sure you see your dermatologist, says Dr. Or, try one of these expert-approved eczema creams. With this rare form of breast cancer, malignant cells called Paget cells are found in the surface layer of the skin on the nipple and areola, according to the National Cancer Institute. In fact, many people with the disease have symptoms for several months before being diagnosed, according to the National Cancer Institute. Along with yeast infections, itchy nipples may also be caused by mastitis in breastfeeding women.
This inflammatory condition occurs in the breast tissue and develops when a milk duct the thin tube in the breast that carries milk from the production glands to the nipple becomes blocked and infected, according to the National Cancer Institute.
This can happen when the milk duct stops draining properly and the breast doesn't completely empty during feedings. What's more, mastitis can also occur when bacteria on your skin's surface or in your baby's mouth makes its way into your milk ducts through a crack in the skin of your nipple. Any breast milk that isn't emptied acts as a hotbed for the bacteria and causes an infection, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition to itchy nipples, you may feel breast tenderness, redness, swelling, or pain, says Dr.
Good-ish news: You can continue breastfeeding while on the path to recovery, as it can actually help clear up the infection, and suddenly weaning your baby can worsen symptoms. What's the Deal with Itchy Nipples? Photo of Megan Falk. By Megan Falk July 01,
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