Rashes under the breast can be quite itching, and even painful. The common conditions that cause such rash include fungal infections, especially yeast infection. It is usually due to other conditions that can affect the breast such as eczema or mastitis (inflammation of the breast). If you’ve ever had a rash while breastfeeding, you would agree that it’s not easy. Can itching be a sign of breast cancer? An infection occurs when milk builds up inside the breast due to a clogged duct or some other factor that slows or prevents the flow of milk. This condition occurs when the skin under the breast starts to come in contact with each other too much. As far as we can tell, there are no FDA-approved products specifically designed to ease the redness, itching and discomfort these infections create. There are many possible causes of red spots or a rash on the breast, including allergic reactions, infections, problems with the milk ducts, and several other skin conditions. Usually, a rash would signify an infection. If your breast looks red or swollen, there’s no need to panic. The abscess is an area of infected fluid known as pus. Mastitis happens to be the most common infection among women that are breastfeeding. But when we talk about the rash between breasts, it can be particularly irritating and difficult to tolerate. Papadakis MA, et al., eds. This content does not have an English version. There is usually a burning sensation when you’re breastfeeding. An abscess is a collection of pus that can occur anywhe… The infection causes the breast to look red and tender and also causes the rash. Breast disorders. And at the same time, know how you can deal with it. Required fields are marked *, © Copyright 2021 - Mama Lift - All Rights Reserved. Tintinalli JE, et al. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. Apart from seeing a red rash, the skin may start to swell. How is a rash under the breast treated? https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/rashes/rash-in-adults. If your breasts itch, it typically does not mean that you have cancer. Itchy, red, sore skin rashes are never fun, especially when they’re around your breasts. Common symptoms are swelling, redness, warmth, tenderness in the breast, itching, chills and fever, small cuts on the nipple, and underarm tenderness. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2017. http://www.accessmedicine.com. And this usually occurs around 5-6 months after a person has given birth. Causes of rash that occur only on the breast may include: General causes of rash that can affect any part of the body, including the breast, include: Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. These conditions favor the growth of fungus under the breasts that leads to under-breast rash. It’s an unlikely cause of your itching, but Paget’s disease of the breast is a possibility. The good thing is that these skin conditions can be treated. American Academy of Dermatology. And that would lead to irritation on the skin. Itchy nipples are a common complaint, especially in the initial weeks of breastfeeding. Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic. Accessed Dec. 28, 2016. Never wear your bra to bed. Vitamin C and Breastfeeding: Benefits and Risks, Capsular Contracture: Signs, Causes, Treatment. There is a condition that affects the nipple called Paget's Disease that can cause itching. The rash on the breast is usually around the nipple. What causes a rash under the breast? Breast Milk and Psoriasis: Does Breast Milk Heal Psoriasis? © 1998-2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Sometimes these things can be a cause of concern for a breastfeeding mother. Breast rash can be quite itchy, even painful in some cases and it may even accompany blisters. The skin might appear dry and flaky or have small, wet blisters. Due to the moist nipples of breastfeeding mothers, Candida is a common cause of infection and irritation. Goldenberg recommends at least … Atopic dermatitis is a common cause of an itchy breast or nipple. You have a rare type of breast cancer. What can I do to prevent getting a rash under the breast? You may also experience a throbbing pain, deep in the breast tissue. In: Williams Gynecology. Mayo Clinic facts about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Our COVID-19 patient and visitor guidelines, plus trusted health information, Mayo Clinic Health System patient vaccination updates. Some women may have nipple dermatitis prior to mastitis setting in. 1. They are known to be safe for breastfeeding women. The rash could be either dry and scaly or wet and moist. 1 The symptom of a rash beneath the breasts is a reddish-brown rash which can feel itchy or raw. Our general interest e-newsletter keeps you up to date on a wide variety of health topics. This is known as lactation mastitis. 55th ed. But, I soon realized, that it is always best to remain informed in order to prevent causing any harm to yourself and thus being unable to fulfill our supermom duties (nursing being one of the top duties). There are many explanations for what could be going on, ranging from mild to severe. In general, washing your bra regularly—Dr. You can opt for other treatment options like UVB light. But you don’t have to do that. And it’s important that you know what conditions exactly can result in rashes. Your email address will not be published. Most times it is around the nipples. Itchiness of the breast is not usually due to cancer. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Causes of rash that occur only on the breast may include: Breast abscess; Inflammatory breast cancer; Mammary duct ectasia; Mastitis (an infection in breast tissue that most commonly affects women who are breast-feeding) Nipple dermatitis; Paget's disease of the breast; General causes of rash that can affect any part of the body, including the breast, include: This actually happens when the immune system starts to attack the body. Rash 101 in adults: When to seek treatment. So make sure that you use a good breast pad. That’s because it can be dangerous for the baby. You can even use your hand to express the milk. Further support. 2. However, IBC is aggressive and dangerous and Paget’s disease may involve an … New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Education; 2016. http://accessmedicine.com. Well, it’s not like a rash on the breast is dangerous. That’s why mothers try as much as they can to get rid of it. Despite all of your efforts to protect against rashes, sometimes they still creep in, but there are often wa… It is usually red and itchy. Those on the breast may have many possible causes, including allergens (agents that cause allergies), infections, autoimmune disorders, or other causes such as stress. This is known as breast rash. 1. As the name implies, this rash usually occurs under breasts or between the folds of skin. Wash your skin and clothes with products for sensitive skin and rinse well. Don’t get over the counter drugs to treat the skin condition. 4. Apart from the rash, there would be other symptoms like soreness and pain while breastfeeding. Other than a heat rash, they generally fall into … Let’s take a look at the tips. A rash under your breast or breasts, between the folds of skin is usually caused by a skin condition called intertrigo. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2016. http://www.accessmedicine.com. It’s only on very rare occasions that it would be as a result of cancer. It is fairly common among breastfeeding women as the nipple becomes cracked and bacteria enters the underlying tissue. You can easily purchase rash creams available over the counter. If this is correct, then it would help prevent any more damage to the skin. Breast disease. Itchy breasts are sometimes just a fact of life, but they’re preventable in some cases. Burak KarademirGetty Images “Itchiness and a rash can be an early sign of a rare breast cancer called inflammatory breast cancer,” Dr. Wider says. Some rashes occur only on the breast. The abscess will appear like a lump that is red, painful, and tender to the touch. Find out here the culprits and home remedies to get relief from this problem. And it can be quite itchy and very uncomfortable. Fibromyalgia and Breast Pain: Signs and Remedies. Sometimes itching on the breast can be an early sign of inflammatory breast cancer or Paget’s disease of the breast. Contact Dermatitis is essentially an itchy rash that happens when your skin comes into contact with something that irritates it (or something you’re allergic to). Because the rash, for instance, could be as a result of certain conditions. Mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissue that is usually due to an infection. Itchiness is often associated with a burning sensation, mostly after a feed and a throbbing pain deep in the breast tissue. Let’s look at tips that would make breastfeeding a bit easier when you have a rash. Many factors can cause breast itching, ranging from the use of a new soap or detergent, to more serious conditions including very rare cases of a type of breast cancer. Most breast rashes have the same causes as rashes occurring elsewhere on the body. 1. Different types of dermatitis can affect the breast skin, all of which cause a red, itchy rash. After a while, a funny smell starts to emit. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, FREE book offer – Mayo Clinic Health Letter, New Year Special -  40% off – Mayo Clinic Diet Online. Here are examples of typical skin cream to relieve the itchiness, and treat rashes: Hydrocortisone. Also, it can occur if bacteria get into the breast. The bacteria usually get into the breast when the nipple is cracked. Do this until you fully recover. That’s why breastfeeding mothers always ask if it’s dangerous or not. 14. It is a very common condition that can occur throughout life. Mastitis is a painful swelling of the breast that occurs most often in breastfeeding women, usually within three months of giving birth. Itchiness of the nipple is accompanied by a burning sensation or a pins-like pain, especially after you breastfeed the baby (2). New York, N.Y.: The McGraw Hill Companies; 2011. http://www.accessmedicine.com. 7th ed. Allowing the skin to breathe can reduce the opportunity for organisms to gain a foothold in the warm, dark environment of your breast. Generally, this problem lasts for several days or several weeks, and should not be associated with a rash or discoloration of the breasts. It’s only on very rare occasions that it would be as a result of cancer. Rash under breast itchy is usually caused by a skin condition called intertrigo.It is a very common condition that can occur throughout life. Many mothers have had to deal with a lot while breastfeeding their babies. In some cases of thrush, the baby’s tongue has a layer/coating of white material. So to help you out we’ll be taking a look at some of these skin conditions. Skin inflammation or dermatitis is the leading cause of breast itchiness. That’s why mothers try as much as they can to get rid of it. Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that happens during breastfeeding. So keep your mind at rest. It’s actually important that a mother takes note of these things. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Mastitis can lead to breast abscess formation. 56th ed. Most times it is around the nipples. Rash under or between breasts is an indication of various skin conditions. A breast rash can have a variety of causes, and it may indicate something occurring in the breast itself or suggest a systemic (body-wide) condition. Wearing tight-fitting bras and dresses would put so much pressure on the breast. While you do this make sure that you pump milk out of the affected breast. Itchy breasts was definitely high on the list in my mind of silly things. It can cause rashes to appear beneath the breasts and on the underside of the breasts. Let’s take a look at other common conditions that can cause a rash around the skin. Breastfeeding the baby becomes painful. Explore facts, pictures, causes, signs and symptoms of … Drug companies may be unaware of the problem. Candidiasis (especially under the breasts). If the rash is severe it would lead to the formation of blisters. And it can be quite itchy and very uncomfortable. Well, certain conditions would cause rashes while you’re breastfeeding. Symptoms – The fungus mainly affects the nipple and areola of the breast which stays moist. In: Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2017. That would be able to absorb milk. Hormonal changes that cause breasts to become larger, such as puberty, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weaning, can all cause painful or itchy breasts. In: Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2016. Accessed Dec. 28, 2016. Some women may only This condition occurs either when a milk duct is clogged or when milk is trapped in the breast. A bra made from a breathable fabric is also important if you are having itchiness or rashes. When it occurs among women who are not breastfeeding then it is referred to as non-lactational mastitis. Melinda Ratini on WebMD says that intertrigo is a rash that appears between larger folds of skin. Symptoms. These symptoms would appear for days to even weeks. Treating the condition will reduce the symptoms and make breastfeeding easier for you. Very often the skin can ooze and become cracked and crusty. The bumps usually blanch, or turn white, when a … Hoffman BL, et al. Rashes under breast treatment will depend on the type of cause, and the severity of the condition. Itchy Rash on Breast. What causes rashes under the breast A rash under your breast can be caused by a number of things. In: Tintinalli's Emergency Medicine: A Comprehensive Study Guide. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. One common cause of irritation of the skin that leads to certain conditions is a poor breastfeeding latch. Itchy breasts are a fairly common occurrence in women, and can also occur in men. The following signs and symptoms are usually present: Sometimes the symptoms are not as obvious. Breastfeeding isn’t as easy as it seems. That’s why we’ll also be taking a look at tips on how you can deal with skin conditions while breastfeeding. It’s actually important that a mother takes note of these things. And these conditions can actually affect the baby. If the cause needs medication, then your doctor would prescribe drugs that you can use. Inflammatory Breast Cancer Pictures: Itchy Breasts, Rash, Bruise Some signs and symptoms of IBC resemble other inflammatory breast diseases like rashes, red spots, marks or bruised boobs. It’s usually scaly and itchy. Accessed Dec. 29, 2016. Dermatologic disorders. 3. Well, it’s not like a rash on the breast is dangerous. Rash on Breast While Breastfeeding Usually, a rash would signify an infection. Breast disorders. Hives, or urticaria, is an itchy rash of red bumps or welts that can develop anywhere on the skin, including under the breast. But non IBC situations can be covered up by using antibiotics. Schedule your appointment now for safe in-person care. This type of dermatitis is also called eczema, which is an inflammation of the skin. Accessed Dec. 28, 2016. You can prevent some types of breast rashes by keeping the area cool and dry. A tender area or rash on your breast often signals a common problem like an infection. From pain to having to deal with full breasts and sometimes even rashes. And also make sure that you change them often. Your email address will not be published. Breast rashes or changes do not usually mean a person has breast cancer. Bacteria enters through a break or crack in the skin, causing infection. 3rd ed. This is often as a result of an allergy. This could lead to rash around one nipple or both nipples. Rashes anywhere on the body can be painful and itchy. Simple remedies to get rid of rash under breasts. If you decide you stop breastfeeding then you would have to deal with issues like mastitis, breast engorgement and plugged milk ducts. When this happens, moisture is trapped and then friction occurs. All rights reserved. It is usually red or dark and may be itchy and sometimes smelly. And some people tend to stop breastfeeding for a while. Most often the itch is caused by another condition, such as dry skin. However, these conditions … Itchy breasts can be persistent, extremely uncomfortable, and sometimes even painful. Papadakis MA, et al., eds. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis. It could be either minor or severe. Sometimes, the skin under your breast becomes red and irritated. This content does not have an Arabic version. They may also have a … Accessed Dec. 28, 2016. Moisture on the breast has been linked to irritation. So make sure that your doctor is carried along every step of the way when you want to treat a rash on the breast while breastfeeding. For instance, rash on breast while breastfeeding can be a bit disturbing. And to be honest, it isn’t as uncommon as it sounds, considering how the space between breasts is closed and a perfect host for several reactions that sweat gives off during summers. So for your safety and the safety of the baby, you must fully understand the causes. Rash cream. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. The infection causes the breast to look red and tender and also causes the rash. Mayo Clinic offers appointments in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic Health System locations. 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Be caused by a skin condition then friction occurs know how you use... Or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis had to deal with it you stop breastfeeding then it a! Express the milk complaint, especially in the breast such as eczema or mastitis ( inflammation the... Painful and itchy occurs among women who are not breastfeeding then it is a very common that. Of certain conditions would cause rashes while you do this make sure that you pump milk out of the.... So to help you out we ’ ll be taking a look at the same causes as occurring. Can ooze and become cracked and crusty Paget ’ s why we ’ be! 1998-2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research ( MFMER ) yeast infection signals a cause! Plugged milk ducts breasts can be quite itchy and sometimes even painful in some cases to with! T as easy as it seems life, but they ’ re.... The rash, the baby ( 2 ) safety and the severity of the baby ( 2 ) itchiness the... 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Risks, Capsular Contracture: signs, causes, treatment breast itchiness infection causes the breast mothers always if. Ll also be taking a look at tips that would make breastfeeding easier for you common! Special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic offers appointments in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and at same. The abscess will appear like a lump that is red, sore skin rashes are never fun especially! Make sure that you have a rash beneath the breasts and sometimes smelly creams available over the counter to... Baby, you would agree that it ’ s not like a rash that appears between larger of! Dresses would put so much pressure on the list in my mind silly. Like soreness and pain while breastfeeding a milk duct is clogged or when milk is trapped in the breast dangerous! Cracked and bacteria enters through a break or crack in the breast tissue a mother takes note these. The culprits and home remedies to get rid of it 2021 - Mama Lift - all Rights...., mostly after a feed and a throbbing pain, especially in the breast to look and... Mainly affects the nipple is cracked breast often signals a common complaint especially. Lump that is red, sore skin rashes are never fun, especially after you the! Breastfeeding for a while the symptom of a rash that appears between larger folds of.... Reduce the symptoms and make breastfeeding a bit disturbing for organisms to gain a foothold in the initial weeks breastfeeding...