Itchy Nipples: Causes and Treatment

How To Reduce Itchy Nipples

Every female experiences itchy nipples at some point in their life. Many factors contribute to this condition. However, most of them are not so serious but still you should not ignore the symptoms.

What are the Causes of Itchy Nipples?

Pregnancy –

Changes in hormones, expansion of breast and increase in the breast milk flow causes nipple itching during pregnancy. During pregnancy, a female may also experience sore and tender nipples and breast heaviness. To treat pregnancy related nipple itching you may try application of chemical free lotion, wearing suitable bra and using my pregnancy detergent and soap. Apply cocoa butter rich in vitamin E or lanolin lotion on your breasts in the morning and evening. Make sure to wear well-fitting bra that allows good airflow and avoid tight bra.

Dermatitis –

Dermatitis is skin inflammation that includes allergic dermatitis, eczema and other types of skin infections and irritation. Dermatitis may be caused due to friction to hard clothing, running and use of harsh soaps and detergents on the skin. On the other hand, eczema is a skin condition that can affect any part of the body. Signs of nipple eczema includes burning, itching, pain, lesions that leak fluid, plague formation or peeling of skin. To treat dermatitis related itching of nipple, use moisturizers to hydrate the skin, drink lots of water, avoid scratching the affected area and avoid things that cause allergic reactions. In addition, take medications as suggested by a doctor. Your doctor may prescribe antihistamines in case of allergy and antibiotics if infections develops.

Yeast infection –

Some females suffer from fungal infection that causes yeast infection. Fungal infections are usually caused due to fungal candida albicans. However, thrush may develop due to unknown causes. If itchy nipples is caused due to yeast infection female experiences nipple or breast pain, pink areola on nipple, dry or scaly skin, white rash, and cracked nipples. Nipple burning, tingling and tenderness is also common. To treat the fungal infection your doctor will prescribe over-the-counter medications and topical anti fungal creams. To ease discomfort and itching make sure to clean your towel, bra and breast pad with soap and in hot water. Make sure to dry them in sun if possible. Sterilise all the pumping equipment for at least five minutes.  If you use breast pads, keep changing them throughout the day.

Jogger Nipple –

This condition is also referred to as runner’s nipple. It is the result of irritation that is caused by rubbing of clothes while performing activities such as running, weightlifting and surfing.Runners nipple results in symptoms such as irritation and redness, dry and sore nipples and cracked nipples. To prevent joggers nipple one should run without bra, wear cotton shirts and avoid performing activities that causes over sweating.

Mastitis –

Mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissues that involves infections. The condition results into redness, swelling breast pain and breast itching. We also develop fevers and chills. This condition is treated with antibiotics. It is recommended to drink lots of water and take plenty of rest to reduce the symptoms of mastitis.

Paget’s disease –

Paget’s disease of nipple is a rare condition that is associated with breast cancer. The condition causes eczema like changes to the nipple skin and areola. This condition is treated with variety of approaches such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgical removal of the part or all of the breast.

Most of the causes of nipple itching is harmless a can be treated easily you should take an appointments with your doctor if itchy nipples do not go away after a few days.  See your doctor immediately if you experience sore breasts, inverted nipple, yellow Brown or bloody drainage, thickened breast tissue and skin changes making your breast look orange peel.