8 Causes of itchy nipples and how to overcome them

Anyone can feel itchy anywhere on their body. Especially in women, itching often occurs on the nipples. Itchy nipples are harmless, but in some cases they can signal symptoms of a disease. So, what are the causes of itchy nipples? Check out the following reviews to find out how to fix it.

Various causes of itchy nipples

There are many causes of itchy nipples. In order to be overcome, of course you must first know the cause. Check out some of the causes of the following itchy nipples.

1. Cold and dry air

Cold and dry air can cause itching in your body, including on the nipples.

The itching can get worse when you sweat, but don't keep scratching it to avoid irritation. To fix this, take a shower or soak in lukewarm water for 1o minutes. After that, apply a moisturizing cream to prevent the skin from getting dry.

You can also apply aloe vera gel or petroleum jelly on the itchy nipples.

2. Pregnant

Pregnancy hormones cause various changes in the body, one of which is an increase in blood flow to the milk tissue so that the breasts get bigger. The heavier blood flow to the breast area can also cause itchy, painful, and more sensitive nipples.

To overcome this condition, use a bra that is not too tight so that it does not interfere with blood flow in the breasts. You can also use petroleum jelly or lotion with ingredients vitamin E, cocoa butter, or lanolin on the breasts in the morning and evening after bathing.

3. Breastfeeding

Much like during pregnancy, increased blood flow to the breasts to stimulate milk production can make the nipples itch. Itching can also be caused by poor breast hygiene during the breastfeeding period. For example, the remaining breast milk that sticks to the skin and then invites bacteria or the use of an unclean breast pump. Likewise, the habit of a baby who likes to pull or bite the nipple when breastfeeding, can cause irritation and itching of the nipple.

In addition, itching can also be caused by a nipple infection called mastitis. For that, always keep your breast area clean and dry. Use lanolin ointment or silicone gel pads while breastfeeding to relieve symptoms and reduce discomfort. If it is caused by mastitis, it needs a doctor's prescription treatment.

4. Menopause

Postmenopausal women no longer produce the hormone estrogen. In fact, estrogen also plays a role in stimulating collagen production to maintain skin moisture and elasticity. That is why the skin of middle-aged and elderly women is drier, thinner, and easily irritated, including in the breasts.

To fix this, you need to maintain skin moisture by applying essential oils to the skin, using a moisturizer, and not taking too long a shower.

5. Dermatitis (eczema)

Itchy nipples can be caused by eczema. Eczema, aka dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition that makes itchy skin red, hot, and cracked. Skin inflammation due to eczema can be caused by genetic factors or environmental influences, such as chemicals in soaps and skin care products, extreme temperature changes, or due to friction of clothing such as small or oversized bra sizes.

Eczema can be treated with corticosteroid ointments, anti-inflammatory ointments, moisturizers and antibiotics. However, you should first discuss with your doctor to find an eczema medication that suits your skin condition, especially if you are pregnant

6. Yeast infection

Yeast infection often affects women who are breastfeeding or who sweat a lot but do not immediately shower or change clothes and dry off. Symptoms include itching, burning pain, dry skin on the nipples, and redness.

To overcome this, use antibiotics and antifungal creams according to a doctor's prescription. In order not to happen again, always keep the breast skin dry and wash bras and clothes in hot water and dry in the sun.

7. Cancer radiation therapy

Radiation therapy for breast cancer usually causes an itchy side effect of the nipples. Radiation can kill skin cells, causing dryness, burning, and flaking.

The fix is ​​to wear loose and soft clothes, drink lots of water, and massage the breast area with ice cubes. You can get antihistamines or corticosteroids from your doctor.

8. Paget's disease

Paget's disease is a rare type of breast cancer that primarily affects the nipples. The symptoms caused by this disease almost resemble eczema, namely crusted, scaly, and itchy skin. The difference is that Paget's disease causes the nipple to bleed or secrete a yellow discharge.

Paget's disease requires special care from a doctor which may include surgery and radiation therapy.

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