Itchy Nipple: Potential Causes and Management Options
By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shubham Pandey
Last updated: Jul 5, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shubham Pandey
Last updated: Jul 5, 2024Table of Contents
An itchy nipple is something many people go through. Although this itchiness can be overlooked, it culminates into a big issue without care.
In this article, we will explore the many causes of itchy nipples. These include skin conditions, infections, hormone changes, chafing, and even breast cancer. Then, we’ll discuss how to manage it with home remedies and medication. We will also discuss tips to reduce the risk. Lastly, we’ll discuss when you need to seek medical help.
Did you know?
Skin conditions can make your nipple itchy. Some of the common skin conditions that can cause itchy nipples are as follows.
Dermatitis is the swelling of the skin that results in red, itchy skin. This can be caused by various factors including harsh soaps, detergents, and even makeup.
Eczema is another skin ailment that makes your skin dry and itchy. This can also affect the nipple area due to a mix of genetics and the environment.
Psoriasis is when your skin cells quickly pile up. This forms itchy, red patches on the skin. The nipple area can be affected by this ailment as well.
Yeast infection happens when the Candida albicans fungus grows. This can affect many parts of the body including breasts and nipples. It results in redness and itchiness. It’s common in breastfeeding women and those on antibiotics.
Mastitis is a breast tissue infection. It happens when bacteria enter the breast via a sore nipple. It usually affects breastfeeding mothers. It can cause pain, swelling, redness, and an itchy nipple.
Pregnancy hormones can make your nipples itchy. Your breasts grow for breastfeeding. This stretches the skin around nipples causing itchiness and discomfort. Hormonal changes also make the breasts more sensitive.
Menstrual cycle hormones can also cause nipple itchiness. Changing levels of estrogens and progesterone can lead to dry skin and hypersensitivity. This can, in turn, cause itching.
This happens when your clothes rub against your nipples during workouts. This irritation causes itchiness and soreness.
Tight or unfitting clothes can also lead to nipple itches. These clothes rub against your skin and cause itchiness. So, pick your clothing right.
Allergies to various items like soaps, detergents, makeup, and perfumes can lead to nipple itches. They can range from mild to serious and need medical care.
Though not common, breast cancer and Paget’s disease can make your nipples itchy. Paget’s disease is a rare type of breast cancer. If you have such issues, always get medical advice.
Moisturising the skin around your nipples may help with dryness. Go for fragrance-free lotions or natural products like coconut oil or shea butter.
A cold press on the itchy nipple may help reduce swelling and provide relief. Wrap an ice pack in a cloth and rest it on the affected spot for 15-20 mins.
Topical creams and gels with hydrocortisone may help manage the itchy nipple. These offer temporary relief.
In some cases, you may need medication to stop the itch.
Antihistamines can reduce itchiness. These work by stopping histamine, a compound that contributes to allergies.
Steroid creams like hydrocortisone may help reduce swelling and nipple itches. But remember, only use as directed.
If your itchy nipples are due to a bacterial infection like mastitis, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to manage the infection.
Proper care may avoid itchy nipples.
If your bra fits right, you may avoid friction and irritation. This reduces your chances of getting itchy nipples.
Opt for breathable clothes like cotton. They avoid sweat build-up and consequent irritation.
To avoid nipple infections, keep your nipples clean and dry. Always wash gently with mild soap and water and dry with a clean towel.
You should visit a doctor if you experience the following.
Your itchy nipples continue to itch despite your best efforts.
You see signs of infection like redness, swelling, or warmth in the nipple area.
You notice all these abnormal changes or discharges from the nipple.
Itchy nipples can make life tough but knowing what causes it and what to do helps. Home remedies and management may help with mild cases. But, always see your doctor if symptoms stay or get worse. That way, you’re doing all you can for your breast health and general wellness.
Pregnancy hormones and increased breast blood flow can cause itchy nipples. Always look at all possible causes before you make a decision.
Though rare, itchy nipples can be a sign of breast cancer or other health issues. Always get medical advice if you notice any changes or nipple discharge.
Nipple itches during your period can come from hormone changes. Dry skin, sensitivity, and other factors may also cause this. Try home remedies or management to help. Always call your doctor if it continues.
To prevent jogger’s nipples, wear the right sports bras and soft shirts. You may also apply a topical ointment like petroleum jelly before you work out. But before doing so do a patch test to rule of allergy to the petroleum jelly.
If an allergic response is the cause, antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream may help. Identifying and avoiding the allergy source may further avoid flare-ups.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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