A rash under the breast is a common skin condition that can be caused by various factors. Here are some of the most common causes of a rash under the breast:
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Intertrigo: This is a benign skin condition caused by moisture, heat, lack of air circulation, and friction between skin folds, where skin rubs against skin. Symptoms of intertrigo include a red or reddish-brown rash, raw, itchy or weeping skin with or without a smell, cracked skin, pain, and a prickling sensation on the skin. Sometimes there can also be swelling, sores, and blisters.
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Yeast infection: A yeast infection under the breast is a common fungal infection caused by a yeast called Candida. Candida grows and thrives in moist, warm environments. When moisture is trapped, it can cause the surface of your skin to stick together in your skin folds. The moisture makes it easier for your skin to rub together, which can lead to intertrigo. Intertrigo allows Candida to overgrow, causing a yeast infection. Symptoms of a yeast infection under the breast include a bright red rash, raised, swollen or tender skin, shiny skin, itchy or painful skin, and burning or stinging skin. The skin around the rash may be dry, flaky, and cracked. The rash may produce blisters that crust over and ooze.
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Allergies: Allergies can cause a rash under the breast. For example, hives can cause a raised, itchy rash that can appear anywhere on the body, including under the breast. Hives are usually caused by an allergic reaction to a substance, such as food, medication, or insect bites.
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Autoimmune disorders: There are different autoimmune disorders that may cause a rash under the breast. Autoimmune disorders are chronic and can’t be cured, but you can manage the symptoms. For example, eczema can cause a rash under the breast. Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
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Other skin conditions: Other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and cellulitis, can cause a rash under the breast.
If you develop a rash under your breast, it is important to speak to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Depending on the cause, treatments may involve keeping the affected area clean, dry, and free from irritants, anti-inflammatory or steroid creams, oral antibiotics, and other treatments. To prevent rashes from forming under the breast, you can wash under your breasts morning and night with a gentle soap or soap substitute, wear properly fitting undergarments, change undergarments frequently, and dry the area under your breasts carefully.
