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Introduction
Have you noticed red, itchy, and irritated skin between your breasts? No matter where and how they appear, these rashes can be especially troublesome for women. Most women face this issue and many ignore this problem thinking that they cannot do anything. But, no more!
Please keep reading to learn more about the common causes of these rashes, how to treat them, and ways to prevent them.
10 Common Causes Behind Rashes between Breasts
#1 Heat Rash
Heat rash, or prickly heat, is frequently found between the breasts. While it’s commonly linked to children, adults can also suffer from it.
This rash occurs when warm and humid conditions block sweat from evaporating properly.
The area between the breasts is particularly prone to heat rash due to the friction from skin rubbing together.
#2 Intertrigo
Intertrigo results from rubbing two skin surfaces against each other, leading to a red, irritated rash that may sometimes emit a smell. Friction, like that from the breasts touching each other, can trigger intertrigo.
The trapped sweat in these areas creates an environment that can attract fungi and bacteria.
This condition is more prevalent in women with larger breasts or those who are active, especially during the summer. Intertrigo is another cause of rashes between breasts.
#3 Inflammatory Breast Cancer
Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer where cells multiply rapidly.
Symptoms can develop and worsen within three to six months, presenting as a red rash affecting much of the breast.
Other signs include swelling, itching, inverted nipples, pain, tenderness, and thickened skin.
These symptoms can mimic those of mastitis or infections, so if prescribed antibiotics do not improve the condition, a follow-up with a healthcare provider is recommended.
#4 Paget’s Disease
Paget’s disease is a rare breast cancer that impacts the nipple and areola, often resembling eczema or dermatitis.
Symptoms include thickened skin around the nipple, a flattened nipple, and discharge that can be bloody or yellow.
#5 Systemic Rashes
Rashes affecting the entire body can also appear between the breasts. Conditions like shingles, eczema, and psoriasis can cause widespread rashes, affecting not only the area between the breasts but other body parts as well.
#6 Mastitis
Mastitis involves an infection of the breast tissue, commonly seen in breastfeeding women but not limited to them.
Symptoms include breast swelling, warmth, pain, fever above 101°F, and redness.
Mastitis can result from clogged milk ducts or bacterial entry through cracked nipples.
#7 Breast Abscess
A breast abscess, or subareolar breast abscess, can develop if mastitis is not treated. It appears as a painful, red lump filled with pus.
Although usually found in breastfeeding women, it can occur in others as well. Treatment may involve draining the abscess and prescribing antibiotics.
#8 Diabetes
Diabetes can increase the risk of skin infections and dryness. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to fungal infections.
Such as those caused by Candida Albicans, which frequently grow under the breasts and cause itchy, red rashes along with blistering and scaling.
#9 Pregnancy
Pregnancy can make the skin between the breasts more susceptible to rashes due to hormonal changes and weight gain.
Conditions like pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP) can cause small red bumps or hives that may spread from the stomach to the breasts.
Another pregnancy-related rash is prurigo of pregnancy, characterized by small bumps resembling insect bites, which may persist for several months post-delivery.
#10 Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating that goes beyond what the body needs for temperature regulation. People with hyperhidrosis may experience sweat that affects specific areas, like the hands, feet, between breasts, underarms, and face, or it may occur more widely.
Excessive sweating can lead to moisture buildup, contributing to irritation and bacterial or fungal growth. It causes persistent dampness that can result into rashes between breasts.
Can Rashes Between Breasts be Puss-Filled?
Yes, rashes between the breasts can become pus-filled if they become infected. This usually happens if bacteria or fungi get into the irritated or broken skin, which can sometimes occur with scratching or constant moisture. Here are some key signs that a rash might be infected:
- Pus or discharge: Yellow, green, or foul-smelling discharge can indicate bacterial infection.
- Increased redness and warmth: The area may become more inflamed, red, and warm to the touch.
- Pain and swelling: An infected rash may become tender or painful.
- Fever: In severe cases, an infection can cause fever or other systemic symptoms.
Treatment and Prevention: Final Takeaway
To manage and prevent rashes between the breasts:
- Clean the affected area gently with antibacterial soap and warm water, and then pat dry.
- Apply fragrance-free moisturizers, antibiotic ointments, or antifungal creams as directed by your doctor.
- Avoid scratching the rash.
- Use unscented soaps, lotions, and perfumes around the breasts.
- Opt for soft, breathable clothing made from materials like cotton.
- Consider placing antimicrobial fabric, like InterDry, between the breasts to reduce friction and itching.
- Change out of sweaty clothes promptly after exercising or spending time in the heat.
- If you suspect an infection, consult your physician; you might need topical or oral antibiotics for effective treatment.
Most rashes between the breasts respond well to over-the-counter treatments and are not serious. If you notice pus or other signs of infection, it’s essential to see a healthcare provider. They might prescribe an antibiotic or antifungal treatment, depending on the type of infection, to help clear it up.
Meanwhile, try to keep the area clean and dry and avoid using any harsh products that could irritate it further. However, if you experience symptoms that might indicate an infection or breast cancer, seek medical attention promptly.
