Why is my nipples itching

Greves tells Health. To stop the urge to scratch, she suggests applying a hypoallergenic lotion to your chest post-shower. The good news about this kind of nipple and breast itch is that at least it's only temporary. After delivery and breastfeeding, your boobs will return to their original size or closer to it. Speaking of breastfeeding, this also can trigger itching, especially around the nipple.

Residue from breast milk can cause irritation, as can the constant sucking or biting of a hungry infant. Be sure to see your doctor if the itch is accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain, swelling, or cracking of the nipples.

These are all signs of mastitis, a common issue for nursing moms. Like so many other menstruation-related issues, pin the blame on hormone changes. Another reason for PMS itching has to do with the fact that breasts enlarge slightly at this time in your cycle.

As the skin of your breasts and nipples stretch, you feel the urge to scratch, says Dr. Radiation therapy has many side effects, and itching is one of them. Here's what happens: radiation can change the texture of the area of skin that's absorbing it. This increases skin sensitivity and promotes itching in the targeted area. If you're undergoing radiation treatments for breast cancer , that means your breasts and nipples can start itching, even when treatment sessions are over, Dr. Jhin says.

Topical medications like corticosteroid creams can help to drive down discomfort. You should also talk to your doctor as well. The best way to manage symptoms?

Keep the skin moisturized with topical lotions—specifically unscented ones, to avoid further irritation, says Dr. Intensive breastfeeding like during the newborn period can cause itch-inducing dryness, says Dr.

Your ob-gyn can recommend a few baby-safe remedies —like medical-grade lanolin or even warm compresses—to try if your nipples have become seriously dry or cracked from breastfeeding. If you still experience itching even with lan0lin, you may have an allergy to it, explains Susan Bard, MD, a dermatologist at Vive Dermatology.

A rare form of cancer called Paget's disease can cause itching on the breast. But monitor any cracked skin. Broken skin on the nipples can lead to the introduction of bacteria into the milk ducts, which may result in an infection called mastitis , says Dr. Mastitis, which can also be caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the breast milk thanks to infrequent feedings or blocked milk ducts, causes symptoms like pain or tenderness in the breast, as well as fever and flu-like symptoms.

Bard, so be careful that what you're treating your dry breasts with isn't causing further damage. If you think you have mastitis, call your doctor, since you may need an antibiotic. Martin says it may be localized or more widespread, and could even lead to blistering and crusting. Irritant contact dermatitis also leads to pink and scaly or dry plaques, says Dr. Martin, and can be caused by excessive dryness from harsh cleansers or friction—on the breasts and nipples in particular.

Friction can also happen if your breasts are asymmetrical, e. Get yourself a proper bra fitting from a professional, and consider investing in bras designed to accommodate differently sized breasts.

To alleviate the itching caused by swelling, Dr. Carroll recommends wearing a surgical bra and applying ice. But again, Paget's is incredibly rare—and there's a better chance your itchiness is related to something else.

Reminder, though: Make sure to get regular dermatology cancer screenings, too—Dr. Ross, or even aspirin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Jacoub explains. Holmes says. Radiation is unpleasant for many reasons—and itchy boobs can be one of them. But, in general, these are some good steps to take to try to get relief:. Goldenberg says that a topical antibiotic cream like Neosporin may help with the irritation. Use an intense moisturizer: You can help soothe your itchy boobs with a moisturizer, Dr.

The best moisturizer for your itchy breasts will depend on your preferences. Soothe your sunburn: If a sunburn is your issue, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends cool baths or showers and aloe-vera-based moisturizers to calm your overheated skin. Here are some good tips for how to make your poor skin feel better after a sunburn. Try a new bra: Wearing lightweight bras and undergarments can help keep the skin of your breasts cool, lowering your risk of developing a rash, Dr.

Ross says. If you recently tried out a new bra and developed itching, Dr. Goldenberg recommends switching to something that uses a natural fabric such as cotton. Slather on a topical steroid cream: An over-the-counter topical steroid cream can help with itchiness, Dr. The Mayo Clinic mentions that it may help to put a cool, wet cloth over the skin in question for some additional soothing action. Opt for an anti-yeast cream: If you suspect your itchy breasts are due to a yeast infection, Dr.

So trying something basic, like moisturizing your boobs more or using a specialized cream should help. In general, washing your bra regularly—Dr. Breast calcifications are small pieces of calcium deposited into breast tissue and are very common.

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Medically reviewed by Michael Weber, M. Causes Symptoms When to seek help Treatment Prevention Overview An itchy breast or nipple can seem like an embarrassing problem, but it happens to many people in their lifetime.

What causes an itchy breast or nipple? What are the symptoms of an itchy breast or nipple? When to seek medical help. How is an itchy breast or nipple treated?