Fungal infections are caused by certain harmful fungi or their excessive growth on our body. Getting a fungal rash under the breast is a very common complaint in women, especially during the summer season. There is no cause for worry though, since it is treatable.
Most people that live in warm or humid climatic conditions, have experienced skin problems brought upon by the weather at some point in their lives. Among these, rashes are the most common ailments that come with the sultriness present in the air.
It gets worse, if they happen to occur on an intimate area of the body. Women in particular, have to deal with these rashes appearing under the breast, which can prove to be a major discomfort.
Rashes that are fungal in nature give rise to a constant itch sensation, or bouts of intense itching. In women, they may appear on the skin fold between the breast and chest, where friction is most likely to occur. This is also due to the accumulation of perspiration that keeps this area moist, making it conducive for fungal infections to occur.
It is important to know that these rashes can stay put for years on end, scarring the affected area if not taken care of, pronto. Hence, timely treatment should be a priority.
- The moistness present under the breasts is ideal for the fungus to thrive on and spread. It has been observed that moist skin is more susceptible to a fungal infection, compared to dry skin. People who perspire heavily, may often suffer from fungal infections.
- Usually, fungal infections advance to secondary infections, where there is persistent chafing or an ignored skin injury.
- It is often observed that most of these skin infections are caused by candida – a type of fungus.
- Cuts on the skin can give rise to fungal infections, under conducive conditions.
- If a woman wears constrictive innerwear for an extended period of time, it can lead to a rash under the breast, since tight clothing does not let the skin breathe easily.
- If a woman already suffers from skin infections or skin disorders, like psoriasis or eczema, she will be more susceptible to fungal infections.
- If a woman happens to have fungal infections on any other part of the body, it can spread over to other areas as well.
- One may be prone to fungal infections if one is diabetic, or has a weak immune system.
- In some, it may also be an adverse reaction to antibiotics.
Remember, that fungal rashes should not be confused with other skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema. The common symptoms of a fungal rash will depend on the part that gets affected. The type of fungus also has a role to play, when addresses the symptoms of fungal rash. More often than not, watch out for the following:
- A common characteristic of a fungal rash is its bright red appearance.It usually affects a large area.
- The color of the rash is darker at the center and lightens towards its circumference.
- Some rashes may take on the appearance of dry skin.
- There can be small lesions on the perimeter of the rash.
- It is in many cases accompanied by an itchy, burning sensation.
Antifungal Medication
Applying a topical antifungal cream usually helps in treating a fungal infection. If the rash is moist, applying an antifungal powder instead, is recommended. The antifungal powder needs to be dusted on the infected area, with the excess lightly tapped away. In case of a severe fungal infection, oral antifungal medicine may be required. If you are diabetic, make sure your blood sugar levels are under control.
Home Remedies
A simple home treatment is applying an ice pack for 5 to 10 minutes to the infected area. Clean the area first with an antibacterial soap and water. Ensure that the area is dry before dusting antifungal powder over it. To make sure there is no moisture accumulation, you can dust baby powder around the area before stepping outside. Using a non-restrictive, comfortable bra is highly recommended. As far as possible, cotton clothing or anything made from natural fibers should be worn.
Pure cornstarch is also said to be an effective remedy to help get rid of a fungal rash. After cleaning the area with antibacterial soap and water, pat it dry. Once it is completely devoid of any moisture, lightly dust cornstarch over it. But make sure that the area is completely dry, since the combination of moisture and cornstarch can cause the infection to spread.
See Your Doctor
If the symptoms are persistent, consulting a general practitioner is highly recommended. A higher dosage of antifungal medications may have to be taken to keep the condition under control. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids to cure it. Depending on how far the infection has spread, it may take a few days to a few weeks for the rash to disappear completely.
- Keeping the skin dry at all times is essential.
- Ensure that you keep your skin clean and dry after a workout, or after any strenuous activity.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes made of natural fibers.
- Keep your bedding clean, so that the fungal spores do not spread to other parts of the body.
- Sharing of personal objects like towels, hair brushes, combs, etc. should be strictly avoided.
- If you are prone to getting a fungal rash, you can try using a soft cotton pad below the breast, to prevent moisture from accumulating in the area.
Do not neglect the symptoms of a rash under your breast. Treat the fungal infection as soon as you notice it. It is advisable to talk to your health care professional to get the right treatment for the fungal infection and to avoid it from spreading further.
Disclaimer: This HerHaleness article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
