Breast rash – Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Overview

A rash in the skin leads to changes in texture, colour and appearance. A rash can cause redness and irritation on the skin. Rashes can occur on any part of the skin and can be itchy and painful, leading to blisters.

Breast rashes are common for women and can occur due to various reasons. The primary cause of breast rashes can be a skin infection, dry skin and allergies. In rare cases, these breast rashes can pose a potential health condition.

Breast Rash

The development of rash and blisters in the breast is called as breast rash. These rashes can lead to inflammation and tenderness of the skin. It can also cause swelling of the skin.

These rashes can be a gateway for bacterial infections, dermatitis and allergies. Breast rashes are similar to other rashes that develop on any part of the skin.

In some cases, breast rashes can look like discoloured spots and will not cause any itching or pain. Breast rashes can be commonly found between your breast and under your breast. In some cases, they can be found on the skin around your nipples.

The breast cancer rash usually looks red with a pit or dimple, the texture of peeled orange. It can also make your nipples look dry with crusted skin.

What causes breast rash?

A breast rash can indicate various health and skin conditions. In most cases, breast rashes are caused due to the same reason that can cause a rash in your hands and legs. However, a breast rash can indicate something is happening in your breast skin or can also suggest a health condition.

The inflammation of the breast skin can be caused when an adverse reaction occurs. Certain chemicals in soaps or detergents can cause such adverse reactions, leading to a breast rash.

The skin folds under the breast are usually warm which leads to skin rashes. These can harbour many fungal infections, leading to a breast rash.

Psoriasis and eczema can also cause a rash. Some chronic skin conditions can also lead to breast rash. Autoimmune diseases can also lead to breast rashes.

Some people can be allergic to certain foods like nuts, lotions and medications. These can also be a reason for breast rash.

In some cases, breast rashes can be accompanied by swelling in the face, constriction in the throat, breathing difficulty, change in alertness or consciousness, pale or purple skin and fainting. If these instances occur, consult your doctor immediately.

Other reasons that can lead to breast rash are

• Heat rash – It can occur when sweat glands are blocked.
• Intertrigo – Rash that occurs between the folds of the skin.
• Hives – These can cause itchy and raised skin.
• Infections like scabies and shingles.
• Mastitis – When the milk duct gets blocked, it can lead to inflammation and skin rash.

Symptoms of Breast Rash

The symptoms of breast rash can be common, like a skin rash or infection.

• Itchiness
• The breast becomes tender and warm
• Breast pain or burning sensation
• Sores
• Formation of pus
• Swelling and itching
• Blister
• Rash that does not go away
• Pitted orange peel-like appearance
• Bruised skin around the breast
• Purple or pale skin

Treatment for Breast Rash

The treatment for breast rash can depend on the cause. The treatment for common skin rash and dermatitis can be treated with steroids. The steroids will be given in the form of topical application in the form of soaps and ointments.

If a woman is lactating, medications to treat nipple dermatitis and fungal infection can affect the feeding baby. So, take medications as per your pregnancy health care professional.

In some cases, rashes can be produced due to viral infections like chicken pox and shingles. It should be treated with antiviral medications, pain relievers and sufficient rest.

The treatment for inflammatory breast cancer is carried out after confirming with a tissue biopsy of your nipple, and the treatment will be decided by your healthcare professional.

The treatment of breast abscesses will require draining the pus from the infected area. The draining of pus will depend on the infection and its site. If the infection is small, the pus can be drained using a needle and syringe with the help of ultrasound.

If the infection is big, an incision will be required, and in both cases, localised anaesthesia will be used to numb the area.

If the breast rash is caused due to normal infection, an over-the-counter ointment will be effective. Clean the infected area with soap and apply the lotion. Avoid using any product with fragrance.

When to see a doctor?

The cause of breast rash can be difficult to identify. In most cases, they are not life-threatening and can indicate a significant health condition.

Consult your doctor

• If the breast rash does not go away.
• Pitted or dimple breast.
• Unusual change in the breast.

How to care for the breast rash?

In most cases, breast rashes go away if they are taken care of.

• Do not scratch the rash as it can spread.
• Try to keep the affected area clean.
• Try to identify the irritants that cause the rash and avoid the usage.
• Dryness can also cause skin rashes. Try to apply a moisturiser.
• If there is an infection, use over-the-counter ointments.
• Try to use antibacterial or anti-fungal soaps to avoid these skin rashes.

Home remedies for Breast Rash

Breast rashes can be treated at home and get rid of it with some natural products like

• Tea tree oil
• Cornstarch
• Basil leaves
• Aloe vera
• Lemon juice

The tea tree oil is usually used to treat various skin infections like acne, eczema and pimples. The oil naturally contains antifungal properties that can treat and prevent the growth of fungi.

Lemon juice contains citrus, which can effectively fight bacteria. It can be a great remedy for breast rashes. It can prevent the growth of bacteria and also hastens the healing process.

Cornstarch can treat itching and burning sensations caused due to breast rash. The cornstarch absorbs the extra moisture and keeps the infected area dry. However, fungi can feed on the cornstarch and worsen the infection if you have a fungal infection.

Basil leaves are widely recognised for their therapeutic properties and are an excellent natural remedy for breast rashes. Basil leaves have antimicrobial properties that prevent the development of infections and heal them. It provides a cooling effect and calms the tingling sensation caused by the rash.

Aloe vera is a great remedy when it comes to skin problems. They can effectively treat infections and rashes. They can be great for inflamed and irritated skin. Aloe vera contains antifungal and antibacterial properties that make it ideal for treating rashes.  

Conclusion

Skin rashes are common and can occur due to various reasons. In summer, they can occur between the skin folds and harbour fungal infections due to the warmth. During winter seasons, they can be caused due to dryness.

When skin rashes occur, do not try to scrape them, as they can spread. Try over-the-counter ointment for skin rashes. If the rashes are persistent, consult an expert, as the underlying cause of the rash can be life-threatening. Additionally, the required treatment will depend on the cause.

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