If you're breastfeeding, you are more likely to experience dry, itchy skin on your nipples.If you scratch nipples frequently, they can become cracked, so it's important to manage the itch.If you work with your doctor to come up with an effective treatment plan, you can make several simple adjustments at home.
Step 1: An OTC anti-itch cream can be spread on nipples.
You can buy hydrocortisone or calamine at the grocery store.Spread a thin layer of the cream or lotion over your nipples.You're always prepared to manage a flare-up if you carry the anti-itch cream throughout the day.
Step 2: Put an ice pack on your nipples.
If your nipples are sensitive, don't put the ice pack on them.Hold the ice pack over your nipples for 10 minutes at a time and wear a loose-fitting top or robe.The cold will numb the nipples.The ice pack can be used up to 3 times a day.
Step 3: It's a good idea to apply a moisturizer that is dye-free.
Your nipples are dry and itchy.Rub a moisturizers on your nipples after you shower or bathe to relieve irritation.Since it should have the least irritants, choose a moisturizer that is designed for managing Eczema.Your nipples don't have the chance to become dry and itchy if you keep them hydrated.First thing in the morning, during the afternoon, and before bed would be a good place to start.
Step 4: A loose top will not rub against your nipples.
Eczema can be triggered by tight clothing that rubs against your nipples.Don't sweat against your skin with cotton fabrics that breathe.If you're breastfeeding, wear a comfortable nursing bra and adjust the straps so it doesn't fit too tightly.
Step 5: Cut your nails to prevent damage from scratching.
It might take some time to stop scratching.If you want to protect the skin, trim your nails short and file them smooth.If you've been scratching, it's important to wash your hands frequently.
Step 6: If your nipples don't respond to home treatments, you should get a medical exam.
If your nipples aren't getting better after a few days of care, contact your doctor.If you have a fever or pain in your breasts, you should get medical treatment.If your baby develops white patches on their mouth or tongue, it's time to call the doctor.
Step 7: Ask your doctor if you should be testing for allergies.
There are a lot of things you can do to deal with nipple eczema, but it can be helpful to know what's triggering your flare-ups.The doctor can perform an allergy test to find out if a specific allergy is responsible.If the doctor discovers that your nipple is being affected by an allergy to fragrance or preservatives, he or she might recommend a course of treatment.
Step 8: A steroid can be spread over the nipples.
If your doctor prescribes a steroid cream, you should spread it on the nipples once or twice a day.The steroid will heal your nipples.The doctor may give you low-potency steroids to see if it clears up.They can prescribe steroids that will treat your skin if it doesn't.
Step 9: If you develop a secondary infection from scratching, take antibiotics.
If your nipples are cracked or sore, you may be at risk for yeast orbacterial infections.You can treat a nipple infection with antibiotics or an antifungal cream.Follow your doctor's treatment plan and take the full course of antibiotics.
Step 10: As needed, take OTC pain relief.
If you have Eczema on your nipples, they may appear red and feel painful.If you want to manage tender nipples, you should take an OTC pain relief.Swelling and inflammation can be reduced by these.If you're breastfeeding, Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are safe to take.
Step 11: Use fragrance-free detergent to wash your clothes.
Even after you wash your clothes, trace amounts of dye, perfume, fragrance, and laundry detergent can linger on them.These things could cause a flare-up if they rub against your nipples.Liquid laundry detergent is fragrance-free.To make sure detergent is washed out of the clothes, add an extra rinse to the washing cycle.
Step 12: Don't wash your nipples with soap.
Natural oils can be washed away by applying soap to your nipples.This can make itching worse.When you're in the shower or bath, rinse your nipples with warm water.If you want to clean the nipples, use a gentle cleanser instead of soap.There are many shower gels and body washes that contain cocamidopropyl alphaine.
Step 13: Track which foods cause a flare-up in your nipple.
It's a good idea to keep a food diary and look for foods thattrigger your eczema.Try to eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.Ask your doctor about starting an elimination diet if you would like to cut out certain foods.It is possible that dairy products and simple carbohydrates cause inflammation in your skin.
Step 14: You should try to manage your stress.
Being under a lot of stress can cause an eczema flare-up, so learn relaxation techniques to relieve stress.Try yoga, meditation, walking, or listening to soothing music.Swimming or jogging can help you manage stress.